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Bill· HRH.R. 3601 (104th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 6 June 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Repeal of the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935 Title II: Enactment of the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1996 Title III: Conforming Changes to Other Statutes Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1996 - Title I: Repeal of the Public Utility Holding Act of 1935 - Repeals the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935 (PUHCA). Title II: Enactment of the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1996 - Declares that this Act does not apply to persons previously exempted from regulations under the PUHCA. Authorizes the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to institute proceedings to terminate any such exemption if termination would be necessary for regulating the rates of a public utility company and for protecting consumers. Empowers FERC to exempt any person or transaction from this title if it finds that regulation of such person or transaction is irrelevant to the rates of a public utility company. Prescribes procedural guidelines for both FERC and State access to holding company records (including subsidiaries and affiliates). Retains the jurisdiction of FERC and State commissions to determine whether a public utility company may recover in rates any costs of affiliate transactions. Grants FERC certain Federal Power Act enforcement powers. Transfers from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to FERC all resources that relate primarily to the functions vested in FERC by this Act. Expresses the sense of the Congress that all personnel of the Office of Public Utility Regulation of the SEC should be transferred to FERC. Title III: Conforming Changes to Other Statutes - Amends the Federal Power Act to repeal its conflict of jurisdiction guidelines.
Bill· SS. 1841 (104th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 5 June 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Work-Based Assistance Subtitle A: Temporary Employment Assistance Subtitle B: Make Work Pay Subtitle C: Work First Subtitle D: Pregnancy and Family Stability Title II: Child Support Enforcement Subtitle A: Eligibility for Services; Distribution of Payments Subtitle B: Locate and Case Tracking Subtitle C: Streamlining and Uniformity of Procedures Subtitle D: Paternity Establishment Subtitle E: Program Administration and Funding Subtitle F: Establishment and Modification of Support Orders Subtitle G: Enforcement of Support Orders Subtitle H: Medical Support Subtitle I: Enhancing Responsibility and Opportunity for Non-Residential Parents Subtitle J: Effect of Enactment Title III: Food Assistance Subtitle A: Food Stamps Subtitle B: Child Nutrition Title IV: Treatment of Aliens Title V: Supplemental Security Income Reforms Title VI: Social Services Block Grants Work First and Personal Responsibility Act of 1996 - Title I: Work-Based Assistance - Subtitle A: Temporary Employment Assistance - Replaces the current Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC) and Job Opportunities and Basic Skills Training (JOBS) programs under parts A and F, respectively, of title IV of the Social Security Act (SSA) with the newly created Federal Temporary Employment Assistance (TEA) and Work First (WF) welfare programs. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 101) Outlines TEA and WF program components, providing for Federal payments to States with approved TEA and WF plans for establishing flexible statewide work-based assistance programs in the State for the following purposes. Provides under TEA for furnishing certain time-limited, conditional benefits based on work to certain eligible families with needy children (or, at the State's option, any expectant family) entering into a personal responsibility agreement with the State setting forth their particular obligations (such as cooperating with the State in the establishment of the paternity of any child born out-of-wedlock for whom assistance is claimed) in order to receive assistance and services under the TEA plan for caring for their children and securing, preferably, a full-time unsubsidized paid job in the private sector, or public sector or volunteer work if necessary, through the WF program. Grants exemptions from such time-limited benefit provision in certain hardship situations. Provides for certain sanctions for refusing to look for work, accept a bona fide offer of employment, or otherwise comply with the personal responsibility agreement. Provides under WF, among other things, for connecting appropriate TEA recipients with the private sector labor market and providing them with the education, training, and other services necessary for them to obtain private sector employment. Gives States the option of: (1) denying TEA to families having additional children while on TEA; and (2) requiring family members to undergo appropriate substance abuse treatment in order to receive TEA. Denies TEA for fugitive felons and probation and parole violators and for ten years for persons found to have fraudulently misrepresented residence in order to obtain assistance in two or more States. Provides for the exchange of certain TEA program information with law enforcement agencies under specified conditions. Lists certain requirements for State TEA plans concerning other programs, including that the State plan require that the State have in effect: (1) a plan approved under SSA title IV part D (Child Support and Establishment of Paternity) together with a child support program in substantial compliance with such plan; as well as (2) plans under SSA title IV parts B (Child-Welfare Services) and E (Foster Care and Adoption Assistance) operating in substantial compliance with the requirements of such parts. Requires State TEA plans to: (1) describe the State efforts to promote family preservation and stability; and (2) require the State to have in effect a plan under its Child Care Development Block Grant Act of 1990 program. Sets forth rules for the provision of services to Native Americans and refugees. Outlines program audit, quality assurance, data collection, and reporting requirements, as well as certain study requirements. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to conduct research on alternative approaches to operating welfare programs and related issues, such as strategies for moving welfare recipients into the workforce quickly, reducing teen pregnancies and out-of-wedlock births, and providing adequate child care. Authorizes the Secretary to implement and evaluate a variety of innovative demonstrations related to child support and other children's issues with respect to TEA clients under State plans. Directs the Bureau of the Census to expand the Survey of Income and Program Participation as necessary to obtain such information as will enable interested persons to evaluate the impact of the changes made by this title on a random national sample of recipients of assistance under State programs funded under this title and other appropriate low-income families. Provides funding for such study. Makes the HHS Assistant Secretary for Family Support the official responsible for administering these new programs (Sec. 103) Amends the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) to provide for the collection of overpayments under the TEA program from Federal tax refunds. (Sec. 104) Amends SSA title XI to revise the limitations on Federal payments under SSA title IV part A and other specified SSA programs to the Virgin Islands and Guam, and provide for their annual adjustment for inflation according to the consumer price index. Subtitle B: Make Work Pay - Amends SSA titles XIX (Medicaid) and IV part A (TEA), as well as IRC and the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 1990, to make various specified changes with regard to certain program aspects, providing, among other changes, for: (1) a permanent extension of authority for transitional Medicaid benefits for former TEA recipients; and (2) notice of availability of the earned income tax credit to applicants and former recipients of TEA and Medicaid. (Sec. 113) Amends IRC to require participating residents to receive advanced earned income payments from a responsible State agency pursuant to a State Advance Payment Program in lieu of receiving earned income advance amounts from an employer. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to designate up to four State Advance Payment Demonstrations. Authorizes appropriations. Subtitle C: Work First - Amends SSA title IV to replace the current JOBS program under part F with a new WF program under which each State that operates a TEA program shall establish a WF program for getting TEA recipients off cash assistance through the use of private placement companies, microenterprise initiatives, and other specified means including subsidized jobs. Allows participating States to establish one of two types of WF programs, with one type similar to the GAIN (welfare reform) Program operated by Riverside County, California, and the other type similar to the JOBS Plus (welfare reform) Program operated by the State of Oregon. Adds a new part G (Workfare Program) (WP) under SSA title IV under which States establishing a WF program shall establish either a workfare program (with separate community service and subsidized job components) or a job placement voucher program under SSA title IV new part H (Job Placement Voucher Program) (JPVP) in order for TEA recipients eventually to secure full-time unsubsidized employment in the private sector. Requires States to provide program participants with the necessary case management services to ensure integrated benefits and services provided under such programs. Expresses the sense of the Congress that: (1) States should target individuals who have not attained 25 years of age for participation in WF programs; and (2) the Congress intends for State activities under the JOBS Plus Program to emphasize the use of the funds that would otherwise be used to provide individuals with TEA to subsidize their wages in temporary jobs. (Sec. 124) Provides for certain increases in WF, WP, and JPVP funding amounts under specified circumstances. Subtitle D: Pregnancy and Family Stability - Amends SSA title IV part A with respect to teenage pregnancy and promoting family stability to require generally certain adult supervised living arrangements for any individual under age 18 who has never married and who has a needy child in his or her care (or is pregnant and is eligible for TEA) in order for such individual to receive such assistance (where possible, from his or her parent, legal guardian, or other adult relative on such individual's behalf). Requires completion of high school or other educational training for certain teenage parents required to participate in WF. Gives States the option to provide additional specified incentives and penalties to encourage teen parents to complete high school and participate in parenting activities. (Sec. 132) Amends SSA title XX (Block Grants to States for Social Services) to direct the HHS Secretary to establish a National Clearinghouse on Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention Programs for the collection and provision of programmatic information and technical assistance that relates to adolescent pregnancy prevention programs. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 134) Allows States to use available Federal funds for the establishment, operation, and support of second chance group homes for custodial parents under age 18 (or age 19, at the option of the State) and their children. Requires that the HHS Secretary, after appropriate consultations, submit recommendations to the Congress with regard to which Federal surplus properties may be used for the establishment of such second chance homes. Title II: Child Support Enforcement - Subtitle A: Eligibility for Services; Distribution of Payments - Amends part D (Child Support and Establishment of Paternity) of SSA title IV to require State plans for child and spousal support to provide: (1) certain services relating to paternity establishment or enforcement of child support obligations; and (2) continuation of services for families ceasing to receive TEA. (Sec. 202) Revises payment distribution guidelines for families receiving TEA and other assistance through State agencies. (Sec. 203) Requires State plans to establish procedural guidelines for: (1) privacy safeguards regarding paternity and child support actions; and (2) notification to applicants or recipients of all proceedings and orders affecting child support obligations. Subtitle B: Locate and Case Tracking - Mandates that single statewide automated data systems include a State case registry containing records of: (1) each case in which services are provided by the State agency; and (2) each support order established on or after a specified date. Permits the linking of local registries. (Sec. 212) Requires State plans to include a centralized, automated unit for the collection and disbursement of support payments. Permits the unit to be established by linking local disbursement units through an automated information network if the Secretary agrees that it will not cost more or take more time to establish or operate than a centralized system. (Sec. 213) Requires State plans to: (1) provide for a State-operated and automated State Directory of New Hires containing prescribed information furnished by employers on new personnel; and (2) transmit such information to the National Directory of New Hires established under this title. (Sec. 214) Requires States to have statutorily prescribed procedures: (1) for mandatory income withholding for support payments subject to enforcement; and (2) under which wages of a person with a support obligation imposed by a child support order issued before October 1, 1996, shall become subject to withholding if arrearages occur, without the need for a judicial or administrative hearing. Revises the procedural guidelines for income withholding for child support enforcement. (Sec. 215) Requires the States to have statutorily prescribed procedures to ensure that Federal and State agencies conducting income-withholding activities have access to State locator systems for motor vehicle or law enforcement purposes. (Sec. 216) Revises the Federal Parent Locator Service to provide for additional information which may be transmitted to locate individuals and assets for purposes of: (1) establishing parentage; (2) establishing, setting the amount of, modifying, or enforcing child support obligations; and (3) enforcing child custody or visitation orders. Directs the HHS Secretary to establish in the Federal Parent Locator Service an automated Federal Case Registry of Child Support Orders and an automated National Directory of New Hires. (Sec. 217) Requires States to have statutorily prescribed procedures requiring recordation on such documents of the Social Security number of: (1) specified driver's, marriage, and occupational, and professional license applicants; (2) individuals subject to certain domestic relations orders; and (3) deceased persons (on death records). Subtitle C: Streamlining and Uniformity of Procedures - Requires each State to have the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act in effect as of January 1, 1998. Amends the Federal judicial code to revise the procedures for the court to apply when determining which State order to recognize for purposes of continuing, exclusive jurisdiction and enforcement for child support orders. (Sec. 223) Requires the States to have statutorily prescribed procedures requiring: (1) expedited administrative enforcement in interstate cases and support orders; and (2) expedited administrative and judicial procedures for establishing paternity and enforcing support obligations. Subtitle D: Paternity Establishment - Revises the guidelines for State laws governing paternity establishment. Requires State procedures under which the name of the father shall be included on the birth certificate only: (1) if the mother and father have signed a voluntary acknowledgment of paternity; or (2) pursuant to a judicial or administrative order. (Sec. 233) Requires State plans for child and spousal support to provide that the State agency administering the plan will make a determination as to whether a program recipient is cooperating in good faith with State efforts to establish paternity and secure support. Subtitle E: Program Administration and Funding - Directs the Secretary to develop a new incentive system to replace the current one. Revises the guidelines for Federal performance-based incentive payments to the States for effective child support enforcement programs. (Sec. 242) Requires a State plan for child and spousal support to include prescribed procedures for State reviews and audits. Revises the guidelines for Federal evaluation and audit of State programs governing paternity, child and spousal support, and parent location. (Sec. 244) Revises the automated data processing requirements for State plans to mandate a single statewide automated data processing and information retrieval system which can perform specified tasks. (Sec. 245) Makes funds available to the Secretary for: (1) training of Federal and State staff, research and demonstration programs, and special projects of regional and national significance; and (2) operation of the Federal Parent Locator Service. Subtitle F: Establishment and Modification of Support Orders - Revises the requirements for State plan procedures for the review and adjustment of support orders. (Sec. 252) Amends the Fair Credit Reporting Act to authorize a consumer agency to furnish a consumer report: (1) in response to a request by a governmental child support enforcement agency; or (2) to the State administrative agency which sets child support awards. (Sec. 253) Shields a depository institution from Federal or State liability for disclosing any financial record of an individual to a State child support enforcement agency. Prohibits such agency from disclosing such a financial record except for the purpose of, and to the extent necessary in, establishing, modifying, or enforcing a child support obligation. Sets forth civil penalties for any person knowingly or negligently violating such prohibition. Subtitle G: Enforcement of Support Orders - Amends Internal Revenue Code procedural guidelines for the collection of arrearages to provide that no additional fee may be assessed for adjustments to a previously certified amount. (Sec. 262) Amends part D (Child Support and Establishment of Paternity) of SSA title IV to revise procedural guidelines for: (1) consent by the United States to income withholding, garnishment, and similar proceedings for enforcement of child support and alimony obligations of current and retired Federal employees; and (2) enforcement of child support obligations of members of the Armed Forces. (Sec. 264) Requires a State plan for child and spousal support to have in effect the Uniform Fraudulent Conveyance Act of 1981, the Uniform Fraudulent Transfer Act of 1984, or a similar law, as well as certain procedures governing the voiding of fraudulent transfers by a child support debtor. (Sec. 265) Requires a State plan for child and spousal support to include specified procedures: (1) to ensure that persons owing past-due support work or participate in work activities the court deems appropriate; (2) to report to credit bureaus the name of the parent in arrears for child support; (3) to provide for liens against real and personal property for the support arrearages of a non-custodial parent; and (4) to implement the restriction of driver's, professional, occupational, and recreational licenses of individuals owing support arrearages. (Sec. 270) Requires the Secretary of State to deny, revoke, or limit a passport upon certification of nonpayment of child support. (Sec. 271) Authorizes the Secretary of State to negotiate reciprocal agreements with foreign nations: (1) regarding international enforcement of child support obligations; and (2) designating the Department of Health and Human Services as the central authority for such enforcement. (Sec. 272) Requires States to have statutorily prescribed procedures under which a State agency shall enter agreements with financial institutions doing business within the State to develop and operate a data match system to provide identifying information for each absent parent targeted by the State who maintains an account at the institution, and to encumber or surrender such parent's assets at the institution pursuant to a lien or levy. (Sec. 273) Requires States to have statutorily prescribed procedures under which child support orders relating to the child of minor parents, where the custodial parents are receiving assistance, are enforceable against the child's paternal or maternal grandparents. (Sec. 274) Amends Federal bankruptcy law and the Social Security Act to declare a debt for child support nondischargeable in bankruptcy. Subtitle H: Medical Support - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) to include within the definition of medical child support order an order issued through a State administrative process. (Sec. 277) Amends part D of SSA title IV to mandate statutorily prescribed procedures under which all enforced child support orders shall include a provision for the health care coverage of the child. Subtitle I: Enhancing Responsibility and Opportunity for Non-Residential Parents - Amends part D of SSA title IV to prescribe guidelines under which the Administration for Children and Families shall make grants to enable States to establish and administer access and visitation programs to facilitate absent parents' access to their children. Subtitle J: Effect of Enactment - Sets forth effective dates and conforming amendments. Title III: Food Assistance - Subtitle A: Food Stamps - Food Stamp Act Amendments of 1996 - Amends the Food Stamp Act of 1977 to repeal the current exclusion and include in an eligible household children under age 22 who are themselves parents living with their children or married and living with their spouses. (Sec. 312) Revises the formula for annual adjustment of the cost of the diet in the thrifty food plan. (Sec. 313) Lowers from 21 to 18 the age of a child whose income is excluded from calculation of household income. (Sec. 314) Replaces the current exclusion from household income of governmental energy assistance payments (thus including them in such income) with exclusion of a one-time payment or allowance for weatherization or emergency repair or replacement of an unsafe or inoperative furnace or other heating or cooling device. (Sec. 315) Revises the standard deduction from household income, applying it to all households, but in different specified amounts for the 48 contiguous States and the District of Columbia, Alaska, Hawaii, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. (Sec. 316) Allows a State agency to make a standard utility allowance mandatory for all households with qualifying utility costs if it develops certain cost standards which will not result in increased program costs. (Sec. 317) Revises the indexation of the vehicle asset limitation. (Sec. 318) Terminates the exclusion from household income (thus including) third-party vendor payments for transitional housing. (Sec. 319) Revises eligibility disqualification penalties for noncompliance with work requirements. (Sec. 320) Authorizes States to require cooperation with child support enforcement agencies as a criterion for food stamp eligibility. (Sec. 321) Mandates a ten-year ineligibility for any individual found to have made a fraudulent statement or representation as to identity or place of residence in order to receive multiple food stamp benefits simultaneously. (Sec. 322) Specifies additional work requirements for able-bodied food stamp recipients. (Sec. 323) Authorizes State food stamp disqualification of a household member also disqualified from another means-tested public assistance program for failure to perform an action required for such program under Federal, State, or local law. (Sec. 324) Repeals annual minimum benefit adjustments and, with respect to the prorating of benefits for the first month after a period of nonparticipation following the end of a previous certification, the limitation to such periods of more than one month. (Sec. 326) Prohibits an increased food stamp allotment for any period for which a household's benefits are reduced under a Federal, State, or local law relating to a welfare or public assistance program because of a penalty or for failure to perform an action required under the law or program. (Sec. 327) Declares that State agencies, in determining household eligibility, shall not be required to use certain income and eligibility or immigration status verification systems established under the Social Security Act. (Sec. 328) Revises requirements for the collection of overissuances of food stamp coupons. (Sec. 329) Authorizes a State to elect to carry out (statewide or in a political subdivision) a Simplified Food Stamp Program, meeting specified requirements, for families receiving assistance under a State TEA program. (Sec. 330) Reauthorizes appropriations for the food stamp program through FY 2002. (Sec. 341) Treats electronic benefit transfer cards and personal identification (PIN) numbers as coupons. (Sec. 344) Increases penalties for specified program violations. (Sec. 345) Allows State agencies the option, with respect to the caretaker exemption from work requirements, to lower the age of the dependent involved from six years to one year if adequate child care is not available. (Sec. 346) Revises requirements for employment and training programs. (Sec. 347) Disqualifies fleeing felons and probation or parole violators from food stamp program participation. (Sec. 348) Requires State agencies to implement electronic benefit transfer systems. (Sec. 349) Requires State agencies to make certain information available, upon request, to Federal, State, or local law enforcement officers with respect to fleeing felons or probation or parole violators. (Sec. 350) Increases from five days to seven the deadline for delivery of coupons after the date of household application. Repeals five-day delivery mandates with respect to homeless households and specified others. (Sec. 361) Sets a 12-month maximum certification period, unless all adult household members are elderly or disabled, in which case it shall be 24 months. Requires State agency contact with each certified household at least once every 12 months. (Sec. 362) Allows a State agency to combine allotments for expedited service households. (Sec. 363) Revises: (1) the provision of allotments for households residing in drug or alcoholic treatment centers; and (2) requirements for the operation of food stamp offices. (Sec. 365) Repeals the requirement for State employee training. (Sec. 366) Permits household oral withdrawals of fair hearing requests. (Sec. 371) Revises requirements for approval of retail food stores and wholesale food concerns to: (1) require the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to establish specific authorization periods for coupon or electronic benefit redemption; and (2) permit regulations to require such stores and concerns to authorize the Secretary to verify all relevant tax filings and obtain corroborating documentation from other sources. (Sec. 373) Establishes a minimum six-month waiting period before disqualified stores and food concerns may reapply for program participation. (Sec. 374) Requires HHS regulations providing for disqualification of retailers who: (1) intentionally submit falsified applications; or (2) are disqualified under the special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, and children (WIC). (Sec. 376) Makes the permanent disqualification of a store or concern effective as of receipt of the notice of disqualification. Shields the Secretary from liability for the value of any sales lost during the disqualification period should the disqualification be reversed through administrative or judicial review. (Sec. 377) Provides for civil and criminal forfeitures for violations of the Food Stamp Act of 1977. (Sec. 378) Amends the Social Security Act and the Internal Revenue Code to authorize the sharing of information provided by stores and concerns with State law enforcement and investigative officers and employees as well as with State WIC agencies. Subtitle B: Child Nutrition - Amends the National School Lunch Act to set forth separate formulae for the reimbursement rates for two specified tiers of family or group day care homes. Provides for grants to States for such homes and State and Federal data sharing with their sponsoring organizations. (Sec. 392) Revises requirements for annual adjustment of reimbursement rates. (Sec. 393) Repeals the mandate and authority for grants for start-up and expansions costs. (Sec. 394) Authorizes appropriations under the National School Lunch Act for FY 1997 through 2002. (Sec. 395) Reduces from 12 percent to eight percent the minimum amount of food assistance that shall be in the form of commodity assistance, including cash in lieu of commodities and procurement administrative costs. Title IV: Treatment of Aliens - Amends the Social Security Act, as amended by this Act, to restrict TEA, supplemental security income (SSI), and Medicaid eligibility to U.S. citizens or nationals and legal immigrants (qualified aliens). (Sec. 402) Deems the income of a sponsor to be available to a qualified alien, with specified exceptions, until naturalization. (Sec. 403) Continues the liability of a qualified alien and sponsor for overissuances of TEA, SSI, and food stamp assistance beyond naturalization. (Sec. 404) Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to grant the Attorney General discretionary authority to admit an excludable alien who has received a guarantee of financial responsibility (affidavit of support) from a sponsor according to specified requirements. Title V: Supplemental Security Income Reforms - Revises the disabled child eligibility rules under the SSA title XVI Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program to require marked and severe functional limitations in an eligible individual. (Sec. 501) Directs the Commissioner of Social Security to discontinue the use of individualized functional assessments for children. Requires the Commissioner to redetermine the eligibility of any individual under age 18 who is eligible for SSI benefits based on a disability as of the date of the enactment of this Act, and whose eligibility for such benefits may terminate by reason of this title. (Sec. 502) Requires the Commissioner to review, at least once every three years, the continued SSI eligibility of each individual who has not attained 18 years of age and is eligible for such benefits by reason of an impairment (or combination of impairments) which may improve (or, which is unlikely to improve, at the Commissioner's option). Requires a parent or guardian of a recipient whose case is so reviewed to present evidence demonstrating that the recipient has been receiving treatment, to the extent considered medically necessary and available, of the condition which was the basis for providing SSI benefits. Provides that if an individual is eligible for SSI benefits by reason of disability for the month preceding the month in which the individual attains age 18, the Commissioner shall redetermine such eligibility: (1) during the one year period beginning on the individual's 18th birthday; and (2) by applying the criteria used in determining the initial eligibility for applicants who have attained age 18. Outlines specific requirements governing: (1) continuing disability reviews for low birth weight babies; and (2) benefit payments through representative payees to dedicated savings accounts for specified purposes with respect to a child or an individual for whom such an account was established prior to his or her attainment of age 18. (Sec. 504) Amends the SSI program to: (1) deny SSI by reason of disability to drug addicts and alcoholics; (2) deny SSI benefits for ten years to individuals found to have fraudulently misrepresented residence in order to obtain benefits simultaneously in two or more States; (3) deny SSI benefits for fugitive felons and probation and parole violators; (6) provide for exchange of certain SSI information with law enforcement agencies under specified conditions; (7) set forth rules governing the installment payment of large past-due SSI benefits; and (8) provide for a reduction in cash SSI benefits payable to institutionalized individuals whose medical costs are covered by private insurance. Provides certain supplemental funding to specified State and Tribal programs funded under the Public Health Service Act for alcohol and substance abuse treatment. (Sec. 507) Amends the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act) to provide for an allowance under the discretionary spending limits for increased expenditures for continuing disability reviews and disability eligibility redeterminations, and for administrative expenses to implement the changes to the SSI program by this Act. Amends the Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974 to provide for similar adjustments with respect to such reviews and eligibility redeterminations. (Sec. 508) Provides for installment payment of large past-due SSI benefits. (Sec. 509) Amends SSA title XI to provide for the recovery of SSI overpayments from social security benefits. Title VI: Social Services Block Grants - Amends SSA title XX to provide for a reduction in funding under such title for block grants to States for social services.
Bill· HRH.R. 3558 (104th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 30 May 1996
Decennial Census Improvement Act of 1996 - Requires the Bureau of the Census, in conducting the 2000 decennial census, to: (1) attempt to contact every household directly, whether by mail or in person (and allows the use of sampling as a substitute for direct contact in a particular census tract only after direct contact has been made with at least 90 percent of the households in such tract); and (2) seek to make more effective use of State and local government offices and appropriate local groups to reduce the undercount and include in a specified report a description of the measures it intends to carry out such requirement. Modifies Federal law regarding exemptions for reemployed annuitants and former uniformed service members to make such law: (1) applicable to service in any temporary position within the Bureau established for purposes relating to the 2000 decennial census; and (2) inapplicable to any service performed after December 31, 2000. Prohibits taking into account compensation for services performed by an individual appointed to a temporary position in or under the Bureau for purposes relating to the 2000 decennial census (if the position is so designated by the Bureau, in writing, at the time of such individual's appointment) for purposes of: (1) State programs for aid and services to needy families with children and for child- welfare services, and for certain medical assistance, under the Social Security Act; (2) the Food Stamp program; (3) certain programs for housing assistance; (4) specified assistance under the school breakfast and lunch programs, the special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, and children, and the Job Training Partnership Act; (5) any Head Start program; and (6) assistance pursuant to the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Act of 1981.
Bill· SS. 1823 (104th)open
United States · United States Congress · 24 May 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Block Grants for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Title II: Supplemental Security Income Subtitle A: Eligibility Restrictions Subtitle B: Benefits for Disabled Children Subtitle C: State Supplementation Programs Subtitle D: Studies Regarding Supplemental Security Income Program Subtitle E: National Commission on the Future of Disability Subtitle F: Retirement Age Eligibility Title III: Child Support Subtitle A: Eligibility for Services; Distribution of Payments Subtitle B: Locate and Case Tracking Subtitle C: Streamlining and Uniformity of Procedures Subtitle D: Paternity Establishment Subtitle E: Program Administration and Funding Subtitle F: Establishment and Modification of Support Orders Subtitle G: Enforcement of Support Orders Subtitle H: Medical Support Subtitle I: Enhancing Responsibility and Opportunity for Non-Residential Parents Subtitle J: Effective Dates and Conforming Amendments Title IV: Restricting Welfare and Public Benefits for Aliens Subtitle A: Eligibility for Federal Benefits Subtitle B: Eligibility for State and Local Public Benefits Programs Subtitle C: Attribution of Income and Affidavits of Support Subtitle D: General Provisions Subtitle E: Conforming Amendments Subtitle F: Earned Income Credit Denied to Unauthorized Employees Title V: Reductions in Federal Government Positions Title VI: Reform of Public Housing Title VII: Child Protection Block Grant Programs and Foster Care, Adoption Assistance, and Independent Living Programs Subtitle A: Child Protection Block Grant Program and Foster Care, Adoption Assistance, and Independent Living Programs Subtitle B: Child and Family Services Block Grant Title VIII: Child Care Title IX: Child Nutrition Programs Subtitle A: National School Lunch Act Subtitle B: Child Nutrition Act of 1966 Title X: Food Stamps and Commodity Distribution Subtitle A: Food Stamp Program Subtitle B: Commodity Distribution Programs Title XI: Miscellaneous Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Act of 1996 - Title I: Block Grants for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families - Expresses the sense of the Congress that prevention of out-of-wedlock pregnancy and reduction in out-of-wedlock births are important Government interests. (Sec. 103) Replaces the current Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC) program and the Job Opportunities and Basic Skills Training Program (JOBS) under parts A and F of title IV of the Social Security Act (SSA) with a single, combined program of block grants to the States for operating statewide temporary assistance (TEA) programs with certain mandatory work, education, and job preparation requirements for needy families either already with or expecting a child, which are designed to assist such families in becoming self-sufficient. Limits such families generally to no more than five years of TEA cash assistance, with certain exceptions for minor children, battered family members, and hardship situations. Denies TEA assistance in cases where an individual family member is a fugitive felon or a probation or parole violator and in certain other specified situations as well. Requires, in addition, certain adult-supervised living arrangements for unmarried teenage parents. Provides for the exchange of TEA program information with law enforcement agencies under certain conditions. Establishes penalties for States and individual families for specified grant and program violations, respectively, through reduced grants and assistance payments, allowing States to terminate such payments to certain adult family members without small children needing child care who refuse to: (1) engage in work, educational, or job preparation activities (required program activities); or (2) cooperate with the State in establishing paternity or obtaining child support unless the member qualifies for a good cause exception. Provides for a separate reduction in State family assistance grant payments for States failing to comply with Federal requirements under SSA title IV part D (Child Support and Establishment of Paternity) pertaining to paternity establishment and child support enforcement. Sets forth the mechanism for State appeal of Federal adverse decisions with respect to State plans or imposition of penalties, providing for advance notification of any program violation and the opportunity for a State to correct it before any such penalty is imposed. Limits the amount of any penalty reduction in the State's quarterly family assistance grant payment. Expresses the sense of the Congress that State TEA programs should: (1) assign the highest priority to requiring adults in two-parent families and in single-parent families with older preschool or school-age children to be engaged in required program activities; and (2) require noncustodial, nonsupporting parents under age 18 to fulfill community work obligations and attend appropriate parenting or money management classes after school. Specifies State TEA plan contents, including provisions for numeric goals for reducing illegitimacy in the State over a specified ten year period beginning in 1996, and certain certifications by the State that it will operate child support enforcement and protection programs, in order for it to be eligible (according to certain other criteria as well) to receive Federal grants for its TEA programs (family assistance grants). Allows the States to decide in their TEA plans: (1) whether or not they intend on providing TEA assistance to aliens; and (2) how to treat families moving interstate. Provides for: (1) the allowable uses of quarterly family assistance grants, family planning services, and assistance to low income households in meeting home heating and cooling costs; (2) additional grants to States as rewards for reductions in illegitimate births and for high performance under the TEA program, as well as supplemental grants to certain States for population increases; and (3) a Contingency Fund for State Welfare Programs (Contingency Fund) in the Treasury for payments to certain eligible States. Makes appropriations for such grants and the Contingency Fund. Sets up a Federal loan program for State TEA programs for anti-fraud and other specified activities, making necessary appropriations. Outlines specific program data collection and reporting requirements, as well as certain research, evaluation, and study requirements. Provides for direct funding, by way of three-year tribal family assistance grants, to Indian tribes (with a special rule for Indian tribes in Alaska) with approved tribal family assistance plans. Directs the Bureau of the Census to expand the Survey of Income and Program Participation to obtain information that will enable interested persons to evaluate the impact of the changes made by this title on a random national sample of recipients of assistance under State programs. Provides for the treatment of existing State AFDC (welfare reform) waivers in effect on the date of enactment of this Act and those granted subsequently. Retains the Assistant Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) for Family Support as the official responsible for administering SSA title IV part A and D programs. (Sec. 104) Allows States to contract with charitable, religious, and private organizations to provide services and administer programs established or modified under titles I, II, and VI of this Act. Prohibits the expenditure of financial assistance provided under such programs for sectarian worship, instruction, or proselytization. (Sec. 105) Directs the Secretary of Commerce to expand census data collection efforts to enable the Bureau of the Census to collect statistically significant data on grandparent caregivers. (Sec. 106) Requires an HHS report to the Congress on State automated data processing systems used in administering SSA title IV part A programs to determine what would be required to establish a system for tracking public program participants and checking case records to determine if such participants are participating in public programs of two or more States. (Sec. 107) Details requirements for a similar report, and study, on alternative outcomes measures for evaluating the success of the States in moving individuals off welfare through employment. (Sec. 108) Makes conforming amendments to SSA, the Food Stamp Act of 1977, and related provisions of other specified Federal laws. (Sec. 111) Directs the Commissioner of Social Security (Commissioner) to: (1) develop a prototype counterfeit-resistant social security card; and (2) study and issue a report to the Congress with regard to improving the social security card application process. (Sec. 112) Requires any organization accepting Federal funds under this Act to disclose that fact in any communication it makes that in any way intends to promote public support or opposition to any Federal, State, or local government policy through any broadcasting station, periodical, or other specified type of general public advertising. Makes any organization failing to make such a disclosure ineligible to receive Federal funds under this Act. (Sec. 113) Amends the Family Support Act of 1988 to remove the "demonstration" status of the Job Opportunities for Certain Low-Income Individuals (JOLI) program and give it an increased annual authorization for any fiscal year. Title II: Supplemental Security Income - Subtitle A: Eligibility Restrictions - Amends SSA title XVI (Supplemental Security Income) (SSI) to deny SSI for ten years to individuals found to have fraudulently misrepresented residence in order to obtain benefits simultaneously in two or more States. Denies SSI for fugitive felons and probation and parole violators. Provides for exchange of SSI information with law enforcement agencies under certain conditions. (Sec. 203) Revises the treatment afforded prisoners with regard to SSI and OASDI (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) benefits under SSA title II to: (1) deny SSI benefits for ten years to a person found to have fraudulently obtained them while in prison; (2) eliminate the OASDI requirement that confinement stem from a crime punishable by imprisonment for more than one year; and (3) authorize the Commissioner to contract with any interested State or local institutions used to confine prisoners for monthly reports back of certain identifying information in order to enforce SSI and OASDI benefit limitations, and pay such institution a specified fee with regard to each SSI- or OASDI-eligible inmate identified who becomes ineligible for such benefit as a result of such reporting. Requires the Commissioner to study and report to the Congress on other specified potential improvements in the collection of information respecting public inmates. (Sec. 204) Makes certain changes respecting the effective date of applications for SSI benefits. Subtitle B: Benefits for Disabled Children - Revises the rules with respect to childhood eligibility, with corresponding changes to childhood SSI regulations modifying the medical criteria for evaluation of mental and emotional disorders, and discontinuing the use of individualized functional assessments for children. Modifies medical improvement review standards, specifically dividing their applicability to, and creating separate criteria for, individuals aged 18 or older, and individuals under age 18, respectively. (Sec. 211) Provides that once an eligible child meets the definition of disability, the amount of the individual's cash benefit will be based on whether or not the child meets criteria for needing personal assistance enabling the child to stay at home with his or her family. (Sec. 212) Provides that at least once every three years the Commissioner shall review the continued SSI eligibility of each individual who has not attained age 18 and is eligible for such benefits by reason of an impairment (or combination of impairments) which is likely to improve (or, at the Commissioner's option, is unlikely to improve). Requires a representative payee of a recipient whose case is so reviewed to present, at the time of review, evidence demonstrating that the recipient is, and has been, receiving treatment, to the extent considered medically necessary and available, for the condition which was the basis for providing benefits under the SSI program. Provides that if the representative payee refuses to comply without good cause with such requirement, the Commissioner shall, if in the individual's best interest, promptly terminate payment of benefits to the representative payee, and provide for payment of benefits to an alternative representative payee of the individual or, if the interest of the individual would be served thereby, to the individual. Provides that if an individual is eligible for SSI benefits by reason of disability for the month preceding the month in which the individual attains age 18, the Commissioner shall redetermine such eligibility: (1) during the one-year period beginning on the individual's 18th birthday; and (2) by applying the criteria used in determining the initial eligibility for applicants who have attained age 18. Specifies requirements governing continuing disability reviews for low-birth-weight babies. (Sec. 213) Revises provisions regarding the disposal of resources for less than fair market value by certain individuals and appropriate notification of Medicaid. Provides for the treatment of assets held in trust by individuals who have not attained age 18 and any earnings resulting from such trust. Requires representative payees of eligible individuals below age 18 to establish financial institution accounts on their behalf into which SSI payments shall be paid. Allows representative payees to use funds in the account to pay for certain allowable expenses. Directs the Commissioner to establish a system for accountability monitoring whereby a representative payee shall report on activities respecting funds in the account. (Sec. 214) Reduces cash SSI payments to institutionalized children whose medical costs are covered by private insurance. (Sec. 215) Provides for installment payment of large amounts of past-due SSI benefits, and the recovery of SSI overpayments from social security benefits. Subtitle C: State Supplementation Programs - Repeals maintenance of effort requirements applicable to optional State programs for supplementation of SSI benefits. Subtitle D: Studies Regarding Supplemental Security Income Program - Requires the Commissioner to prepare an annual report for the President and the Congress on the SSI program, and make appropriate arrangements for a study of the disability determination process under SSA titles II and XVI for any needed changes. (Sec. 233) Outlines the requirements for a study and report by the General Accounting Office on the impact of this title on the SSI program and on the extra expenses incurred by families of children receiving benefits under such program that are not covered by other Federal, State, or local programs. Subtitle E: National Commission on the Future of Disability - Establishes the National Commission on the Future of Disability to develop and carry out a comprehensive study of all matters related to the nature, purpose, and adequacy of all Federal programs serving individuals with disabilities in order to develop appropriate recommendations for any needed legislation or administrative action. Authorizes appropriations. Subtitle F: Retirement Age Eligibility - Provides that, for purposes of determining an aged individual under SSI, the age used shall be the retirement age used under the OASDI program. Title III: Child Support - Subtitle A: Eligibility for Services; Distribution of Payments - Amends part D (Child Support and Establishment of Paternity) of SSA title IV to require State plans for child and spousal support to provide: (1) certain services relating to paternity establishment or enforcement of child support obligations; and (2) continuation of services for families ceasing to receive assistance under Aid to Families with Dependent Children. (Sec. 302) Revises payment distribution guidelines for support obligations collected by the State on behalf of a family. (Sec. 303) Requires State plans to establish procedural guidelines for: (1) privacy safeguards regarding paternity and child support actions; and (2) notification to services applicants or recipients of all proceedings and orders affecting child support obligations. Subtitle B: Locate and Case Tracking - Mandates that single statewide automated data systems include a State case registry containing records of: (1) each case in which services are provided by the State agency; and (2) each support order established on or after a specified date. Permits the linking of local registries. (Sec. 312) Requires State plans to include centralized, automated unit for the collection and disbursement of support payments. Permits the unit to be established by linking local disbursement units through an automated information network if the Secretary agrees that it will not cost more or take more time to establish or operate than a centralized system. (Sec. 313) Requires State plans to: (1) provide for a State-operated and automated State Directory of New Hires containing prescribed information furnished by employers on new personnel; and (2) transmit such information to the National Directory of New Hires. (Sec. 314) Requires States to have statutorily prescribed procedures: (1) for mandatory income withholding for support payments subject to enforcement; and (2) under which wages of a person with a support obligation imposed by a child support order issued before October 1, 1996, shall become subject to withholding if arrearages occur, without the need for a judicial or administrative hearing. Revises the procedural guidelines for income withholding for child support enforcement. (Sec. 315) Requires the States to have statutorily prescribed procedures to ensure that Federal and State agencies conducting income-withholding activities have access to State locator systems for motor vehicle or law enforcement purposes. (Sec. 316) Revises the Federal Parent Locator Service to provide for additional information which may be transmitted to locate individuals and assets for purposes of: (1) establishing parentage; (2) establishing, setting the amount of, modifying, or enforcing child support obligations; and (3) enforcing child custody or visitation orders. Directs the HHS Secretary to establish in the Federal Parent Locator Service an automated Federal Case Registry of Child Support Orders and an automated National Directory of New Hires. Requires the Secretaries of Labor and HHS to jointly develop cost-effective methods of accessing information in the various State directories of new hires and the National Directory of New Hires (established under this Act), taking into account impact and cost to the States, and the need to ensure authorized use of wage record information. (Sec. 317) Requires States to have statutorily prescribed procedures requiring recordation on such documents of the Social Security number of: (1) specified driver's, marriage, and occupational, and professional license applicants; (2) individuals subject to certain domestic relations orders; and (3) deceased persons (on death records). Subtitle C: Streamlining and Uniformity of Procedures - Requires each State to have the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act in effect as of January 1, 1998. Amends the Federal judicial code to revise the procedures for the court to apply when determining which State order to recognize for purposes of continuing, exclusive jurisdiction and enforcement for child support orders. (Sec. 323) Requires the States to have statutorily prescribed procedures requiring: (1) expedited administrative enforcement in interstate cases and support orders; and (2) expedited administrative and judicial procedures for establishing paternity and enforcing support obligations. Subtitle D: Paternity Establishment - Revises the guidelines for State laws governing paternity establishment. Requires State procedures under which the name of the father shall be included on the birth certificate only: (1) if the mother and father have signed a voluntary acknowledgment of paternity; or (2) pursuant to a judicial or administrative order. (Sec. 333) Requires State plans for child and spousal support to provide that the State agency administering the plan will make a determination as to whether a program recipient is cooperating in good faith with State efforts to establish paternity and secure support. Subtitle E: Program Administration and Funding - Directs the Secretary to develop a new incentive system to replace the current one. Revises the guidelines for Federal performance-based incentive payments to the States for effective child support enforcement programs. (Sec. 342) Requires a State plan for child and spousal support to include prescribed procedures for State reviews and audits. Revises the guidelines for Federal evaluation and audit of State programs governing paternity, child and spousal support, and parent location. (Sec 344) Revises the automated data processing requirements for State plans to mandate a single statewide automated data processing and information retrieval system which can perform specified tasks. (Sec. 345) Makes funds available to the Secretary for: (1) training of Federal and State staff, research and demonstration programs, and special projects of regional and national significance; and (2) operation of the Federal Parent Locator Service. Subtitle F: Establishment and Modification of Support Orders - Revises the requirements for State plan procedures for the review and adjustment of support orders. (Sec. 352) Amends the Fair Credit Reporting Act to authorize a consumer agency to furnish a consumer report: (1) in response to a request by a governmental child support enforcement agency; or (2) to the State administrative agency which sets child support awards. (Sec. 353) Shields a depository institution from Federal or State liability for disclosing any financial record of an individual to a State child support enforcement agency. Prohibits such agency from disclosing such a financial record except for the purpose of, and to the extent necessary in, establishing, modifying, or enforcing a child support obligation. Sets forth civil penalties for knowingly or negligently violating such prohibition. Subtitle G: Enforcement of Support Orders - Amends Internal Revenue Code procedural guidelines for the collection of arrearages to provide that no additional fee may be assessed for adjustments to a previously certified amount. (Sec. 362) Amends part D (Child Support and Establishment of Paternity) of SSA title IV to revise procedural guidelines for: (1) consent by the United States to income withholding, garnishment, and similar proceedings for enforcement of child support and alimony obligations of current and retired Federal employees; and (2) enforcement of child support obligations of members of the armed forces. (Sec. 364) Requires a State plan for child and spousal support to have in effect the Uniform Fraudulent Conveyance Act of 1981, the Uniform Fraudulent Transfer Act of 1984, or a similar law, as well as certain procedures governing the voiding of fraudulent transfers by a child support debtor. (Sec. 365) Requires a State plan for child and spousal support to include specified procedures: (1) to ensure that persons owing past-due support work or participate in work activities the court deems appropriate; (2) to report to credit bureaus the name of the parent in arrears for child support; (3) to provide for liens against real and personal property for the support arrearages of a non-custodial parent; and (4) to implement the restriction of driver's, professional, occupational, and recreational licenses of individuals owing support arrearages. (Sec. 370) Requires the Secretary of State to deny, revoke, or limit a passport upon certification of nonpayment of child support. (Sec. 371) Authorizes the Secretary of State to negotiate reciprocal agreements with foreign nations: (1) regarding international enforcement of child support obligations; and (2) designating the Department of Health and Human Services as the central authority for such enforcement. (Sec. 372) Requires States to have statutorily prescribed procedures under which a State agency shall enter agreements with financial institutions doing business within the State to develop and operate a data match system to provide identifying information for each non-custodial parent targeted by the State who maintains an account at the institution, and to encumber or surrender such parent's assets at the institution pursuant to a lien or levy. (Sec. 373) Requires States to have statutorily prescribed procedures under which child support orders relating to the child of minor parents, where the custodial parents are receiving assistance, are enforceable against the child's paternal or maternal grandparents. (Sec. 374) Amends Federal bankruptcy law and the Social Security Act to declare a debt for child support nondischargeable in bankruptcy. Subtitle H: Medical Support - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) to include within the definition of medical child support order an order issued through a State administrative process. (Sec. 377) Amends part D of SSA title IV to mandate statutorily prescribed procedures under which all enforced child support orders shall include a provision for the health care coverage of the child. Subtitle I: Enhancing Responsibility and Opportunity for Non-Residential Parents - Amends part D of SSA title IV to prescribe guidelines under which the Administration for Children and Families shall make grants to enable States to establish and administer access and visitation programs to facilitate non-custodial parents' access to their children. Subtitle J: Effect of Enactment - Sets forth effective dates and conforming amendments. Title IV: Restricting Welfare and Public Benefits for Aliens - Subtitle A: Eligibility for Federal Benefits - Prohibits (with exceptions) specified Federal benefits to nonqualified aliens. Limits (with exceptions) qualified alien access to other specified Federal programs. Requires the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to provide the Immigration and Naturalization Service with information on illegal aliens. Subtitle B: Eligibility for State and Local Public Benefits Programs - Sets forth similar prohibitions and limitations on alien access to State and local public benefits. Subtitle C: Attribution of Income and Affidavits of Support - Attributes a sponsor's (and spouse's) income and resources to the alien sponsoree in determining eligibility for Federal means-tested public benefits. (Sec. 422) Authorizes States to make similar attributions. (Sec. 423) Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to set forth sponsor affidavit of support requirements. (Sec. 424) Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to require sponsor cosignature of alien student loans. Subtitle D: General Provisions - Directs the Attorney General to promulgate regulations for verification of Federal public benefits eligibility. (Sec. 435) Makes the determination of an alien's qualifying quarters under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act dependant upon whether or not a parent or spouse received Federal means-tested assistance during such quarters. Subtitle E: Conforming Amendments Related to Assisted Housing - Makes conforming amendments to the Housing and Community Development Act of 1980. Subtitle F: Earned Income Credit Denied to Unauthorized Employees - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to require a taxpayer to provide his or her social security number in order to qualify for the individual earned income credit. Title V: Reductions in Federal Government Positions - Outlines the mechanism for various specified Federal executive agency workforce reductions, requiring submission to specified congressional committees of certain determinations about the number of full-time equivalent (FTE) positions of their respective departments by the Secretaries of Agriculture, of Education, of Labor, of Housing and Urban Development, and of HHS. Requires the Secretaries to make FTE reductions, including reductions-in-force, resulting from such determinations over the ensuing 14 months. Requires the Comptroller General to analyze and report to such committees on such determinations, with recommendations for further FTE reductions, if appropriate. (Sec. 502) Requires the HHS Secretary to reduce the Federal workforce within HHS: (1) by 75 percent of the FTE positions relating to any direct spending program, or any program funded through discretionary spending, that has been converted into a block grant program by this Act; and (2) by 75 percent of a proportionate number of the total FTE departmental management positions. Requires reduction of FTE positions in HHS: (1) by 245 FTE positions related to the program converted by this Act into TEA block grants; and (2) by 60 FTE managerial positions. (Sec. 503) Encourages the HHS Secretary to reduce personnel in the Washington, D.C., area office (agency headquarters) before reducing field personnel. Title VI: Reform of Public Housing - Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to prohibit (with an exception) increased housing assistance under such Act due to reduced family income resulting from noncompliance reductions in welfare or other public assistance benefits. (Sec. 602) Prohibits an increase in federally appropriated means-tested welfare or public assistance due to reduced income resulting from fraud-caused reductions under another means-tested welfare or public assistance program. Title VII: Child Protection Block Grant Programs and Foster Care, Adoption Assistance and Independent Living Programs - Subtitle A: Child Protection Block Grant Program and Foster Care, Adoption Assistance, and Independent Living Programs - Replaces title IV-B (Child Welfare Services) with a block grant program to the States to implement: (1) child protection programs regarding child abuse and neglect; and (2) child protection. (Sec. 701) Prescribes guidelines under which the Secretary of Health and Human Services (the Secretary) shall: (1) establish a national data collection and analysis program to coordinate existing State child abuse and neglect reports; and (2) implement a data collection system regarding adoption and foster care. Appropriates funds for child welfare studies and for assessment of State courts improvement of foster care and adoption proceedings. (Sec. 711) Makes conforming amendments to title IV-E (Foster Care and Adoption Assistance). Delineates requirements for State eligibility for Federal payments for foster care maintenance and adoption assistance. Sets forth guidelines for payments and allotments to the States for adoption assistance, foster care, and independent living programs (designed to assist children who have attained age 16 to make the transition from foster care to independent living). (Sec. 731) Instructs the Secretary to submit a legislative proposal to certain congressional committees providing for technical and conforming amendments in the law, pursuant to this Act. (Sec. 732) Expresses the sense of the Congress that States should: (1) allocate sufficient funds for adoption and medical assistance to encourage child adoption; (2) offer incentives to make adoption of special needs children more affordable for middle-class families; (3) provide a child that must be removed from its biological parents with a single foster care placement and single coordinated case team, including conclusion of adoption within one year of such child's foster care placement; and (4) participate in programs to enable maximum visibility of waiting children to potential parents. Subtitle B: Child and Family Services Block Grant - Renames the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act as the Child and Family Services Block Grant Act of 1996. Changes the purposes of the Act to emphasize assistance to each State in improving child protective service systems. Delineates criteria governing State eligibility for Federal block grants for: (1) child and family services; and (2) research, demonstrations, training, and technical assistance. (Sec. 751) Instructs the Secretary to: (1) establish a national child abuse and neglect data collection and analysis program, and a national clearinghouse for information relating to child abuse; and (2) provide technical and training assistance to the States for child abuse and neglect programs and for adoption opportunities. Mandates peer review for such grants. Instructs the Secretary to conduct a national random sample study of children at risk of child abuse or neglect. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1996 through 2002, including grants for demonstration projects. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to States to assist them in developing programs related to the investigation and prosecution of child abuse and neglect cases. Requires any State requesting such assistance to establish a multidisciplinary task force on children's justice to study administrative, civil, and criminal judicial handling of such cases, and make recommendations which the State must adopt (or equivalent alternatives). Title VIII: Child Care - Child Care and Development Block Grant Amendments of 1996 - Revises and extends through FY 2002 the authorization of appropriations for the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 1990 (the Act, for purposes of this title). Sets forth goals for State child care assistance. (Sec. 803) Amends Part A of title IV (AFDC) of the Social Security Act to entitle each State to payments for providing child care assistance. (Sec. 804) Authorizes the State lead agency to administer the financial assistance it receives through other governmental or nongovernmental agencies. (Sec. 805) Revises State application and plan requirements with respect to consumer education information, State licensing compliance, meeting the needs of AFDC or TEA recipients (especially those attempting through work activities to leave the assistance program) and those at risk of becoming dependent on assistance, and assistance for certain low-income working families. (Sec. 807) Reduces from 20 percent to three percent the minimum amount of certain funds available for State activities to improve the quality of child care, limited to: (1) comprehensive consumer education to parents and the public; (2) activities increasing parental choice; and (3) activities designed to improve child care quality and availability. (Sec. 808) Repeals a requirement that States expend a specified minimum amount of reserved funds for early childhood development and before- and after-school services. (Sec. 813) Reduces the allotment reserved for Indian tribes or tribal organizations from three percent to one percent. Prescribes guidelines for the use of such allotment for facility repair and construction. (Sec. 815) Repeals: (1) the Child Development Associate Scholarship Assistance Act of 1985; (2) the State Dependent Care Development Grants Act; (3) specified programs under title X (Programs of National Significance) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 and (4) the Native Hawaiian Family-based Education Centers program under the Native Hawaiian Education Act. Title IX: Child Nutrition Programs - Subtitle A: National School Lunch Act - Amends the National School Lunch Act (NSLA) to repeal specified authorities and requirements for the school lunch and related programs, including: (1) State educational authority to use resources from the nutrition and education (NET) program; (2) prohibition of State imposition of teaching personnel and curriculum requirements at any school; (3) certain demonstration grants to private nonprofit organizations or educational institutions for elementary school curriculum food and nutrition projects; (4) aspects of summer food service programs, reducing payment rates and daily meals at camps, reducing the National Youth Sports Program, and revising nutritional standards compliance requirements; (5) certain commodity distribution program requirements, including State Advisory Councils; (6) expansion of the child care food program; (7) adult care food aid to adult day care centers and services for persons over 60; (8) certain pilot projects, including one for paperwork reduction; and (9) an information clearinghouse. (Sec. 901) Includes in the definition of child any individual with one or more mental or physical disabilities, regardless of age, who attends a specified type of institution, or any nonresidential public or nonprofit private school of high school grade or under, in order to participate in a school program for such individuals. (Sec. 902) Revises nutritional requirements. (Sec. 905) Prohibits, in general, any waiver that will increase Federal costs. Subtitle B: Child Nutrition Act of 1966 - Amends the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 (CNA) to revise the school breakfast program: (1) eliminating Federal assistance for food preparation training and program expansion and start-up costs; (2) repealing certain authorities and requirements relating to State administrative expenses (SAE); (3) repealing the prohibition against State imposition of teaching personnel and curriculum requirements at any school; (4) repealing the program of cash grants for nutrition education. (Sec. 929) Revises the special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, and children (WIC), among other things repealing specified requirements and changing from mandatory to optional: (1) drug abuse education; and (2) provision of WIC information in languages other than English. (Sec. 931) Makes the Nutrition and Education program discretionary rather than mandatory. Authorizes appropriations. Title X: Food Stamps and Commodity Distribution - Food Stamp Reform and Commodity Distribution Act of 1996 - Subtitle A: Food Stamp Program - Amends the Food Stamp Act of 1977 (Act) to establish a maximum 24-month food stamp program (program) authorization period for households whose adult members are elderly or disabled. (Sec. 1012) Expands the definition of "coupon." (Sec. 1013) Treats children who are themselves parents living with their children and married children living with their spouses as part of an existing household rather than as a separate household. (Sec. 1014) Authorizes States to establish additional criteria for separate household determinations. (Sec. 1015) Revises thrifty food plan adjustment requirements. (Sec. 1016) Revises the definition of "homeless individual" to limit the length of time a person may temporarily live in another person's residence. (Sec. 1018) Revises household income exclusion provisions regarding: (1) students; and (2) Federal energy assistance. (Sec. 1020) Revises household income deduction provisions regarding: (1) standard deductions; (2) earned income; (3) dependent care; (4) child support payments; (5) homeless shelter assistance; (6) excess medical expenses; and (7) excess shelter expenses. (Sec. 1021) Eliminates specified excludable auto value increases and establishes the maximum excludable auto value at $4600. (Sec. 1022) Includes as household income third party payments for transitional housing for the homeless. (Sec. 1023) Increases penalties for certain program violations. (Sec. 1024) Disqualifies permanently an individual convicted of specified coupon violations. (Sec. 1025) Revises work requirement and employment and training provisions. Extends employment and training funding authorizations. (Sec. 1028) Authorizes comparable program disqualification based upon welfare or public assistance disqualification. (Sec. 1029) Disqualifies permanently an individual who participates in the program in two or more States. (Sec. 1030) Disqualifies a fleeing felon from program participation. (Sec. 1031) Requires at State option: (1) cooperation with child support agencies in order to maintain program eligibility; and (2) program disqualification for child support arrears. (Sec. 1033) Defines "work program." Makes nonexempt persons ineligible for program benefits if during the preceding 12-month period they received food stamps for four months or more without working at least 20 hours per week, or participating in a workfare program. Sets forth exempted persons and situations. (Sec. 1034) Directs States to implement electronic benefit transfer systems. (Sec. 1035) Eliminates annual minimum allotment adjustments. (Sec. 1037) Authorizes a combined allotment for expedited households. (Sec. 1038) Authorizes program reductions for failure to comply with a public assistance reduction requirement. (Sec. 1039) Authorizes program assistance for households residing in a homeless shelter or drug or alcohol treatment center. (Sec. 1040) Provides that no food store or wholesale food concern be approved for program participation without a prior visit by a Department of Agriculture employee, or whenever possible, a designated State or local official. (Sec. 1041) Directs the Secretary of Agriculture (Secretary) to establish authorization periods for retail food stores and wholesale food concerns to redeem food stamps or benefits through an electronic benefit transfer system. (Sec. 1042) Includes income and sales tax information among the types of eligibility verification information that may be requested. (Sec. 1043) Establishes a six-month reapplication waiting period for a store that does not meet participation requirements. (Sec. 1044) Revises: (1) food stamp office operating provisions; and (2) expedited coupon service requirements. (Sec. 1045) Eliminates certain certification personnel training requirements. (Sec. 1046) Provides for the exchange of information with law enforcement or Immigration and Naturalization Service personnel. (Sec. 1048) Authorizes a family to withdraw a fair hearing request. (Sec. 1049) Permits States to use income, and immigration eligibility verification systems other than the system used in part A (General Provisions) of title XI (General Provisions and Peer Review) of the Social Security Act. (Sec. 1050) Provides for disqualification of a store: (1) that knowingly submits a falsified application; and (2) that is disqualified from the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). (Sec. 1052) Directs program overissuances to be collected by: (1) allotment reduction; (2) unemployment compensation withholding; or (3) Federal pay or Federal income tax refund recovery. (Sec. 1053) Authorizes suspension of a store pending administrative and judicial review. (States that the Secretary shall not be liable for lost sales during such period.) (Sec. 1054) Establishes criminal forfeiture penalties for specified program violations. (Sec. 1055) Terminates Federal matching requirements for program recruitment activities. (Sec. 1057) Authorizes States to use funds otherwise available to a participating household for a work supplementation or support program. Sets forth program provisions. (Sec. 1058) Authorizes waiver of program requirements as necessary to conduct related pilot projects. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 1061) Authorizes States to carry out private sector employment initiatives. Sets forth program provisions. (Sec. 1062) Authorizes appropriations for program operations. (Sec. 1063) Authorizes States to carry out a Simplified Food Stamp Program in lieu of existing program requirements. Sets forth program provisions. (Sec. 1064) Establishes an optional State food assistance block grant program in lieu of the food stamp program. Sets forth program provisions. Subtitle B: Commodity Distribution Programs - Amends the Emergency Food Assistance Act of 1983 to combine the emergency food assistance program with the soup kitchen-food bank program. Amends the Act to direct the Secretary to purchase commodities for such combined programs. (Sec. 1072) Amends the Charitable Assistance and Food Bank Act of 1987 to repeal the food bank demonstration project. (Sec. 1073) Makes conforming amendments to the Hunger Prevention Act of 1988. Title XI: Miscellaneous - Requires any funds received by a State under the TEA program, the optional State food assistance block grant program under the Food Stamp Act of 1977, or the child care block grant program under the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 1990, to be expended only in accordance with the laws and procedures applicable to expenditures of the State's own revenues, including appropriation by the State legislature, consistent with the terms and conditions required under such provisions of law. (Sec. 1102) Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to eliminate housing assistance with respect to fugitive felons and probation and parole violators, and provide for the exchange of certain housing information with law enforcement agencies upon request for specified official purposes. (Sec. 1103) Expresses the sense of the Senate that the Congress should adopt enterprise zone legislation in the 104th Congress, and that such legislation provide various specified incentives and provisions, such as Federal tax incentives that expand access to capital, increase the formation and expansion of small businesses, and promote commercial revitalization. (Sec. 1104) Expresses the sense of the Senate that: (1) States should diligently continue their efforts to enforce child support payments by the non-custodial parent to the custodial parent, regardless of the employment status or location of the non-custodial parent; and (2) States are encouraged to pursue pilot programs in which the parents of a non-adult, non-custodial parent who refuses to or is unable to pay child support must pay or contribute to the child support owed by the non-custodial parent or otherwise fulfill all financial obligations and meet all conditions imposed on the non-custodial parent, such as participation in a work program or other related activity. (Sec. 1105) Amends the Food Stamp Act of 1977 to modify the eligibility disqualifications for aliens to give State agencies the option of considering either all income and financial resources of the individual rendered ineligible to participate in the food stamp program, or such income, less a pro rata share, and the financial resources of the ineligible individual, to determine the eligibility and the value of the allotment of the household of which such individual is a member. (Sec. 1106) Directs the HHS Secretary to establish and implement a certain strategy for: (1) preventing out-of-wedlock teenage pregnancies; and (2) assuring that at least 25 percent of the communities in the United States have teenage pregnancy prevention programs in place. (Sec. 1107) Expresses the sense of the Senate that States and local jurisdictions should aggressively enforce statutory rape laws. (Sec. 1108) Provides that States shall not be prohibited by the Federal Government from sanctioning welfare recipients who test positive for the use of controlled substances. (Sec. 1109) Amends SSA title V (Maternal and Child Health Services) to provide for an increase in funding under such title and authorize the provision of abstinence education, along with a separate funding set-aside for it. (Sec. 1110) Amends the Electronic Fund Transfer Act to make certain amendments in order to encourage electronic benefit transfer systems for the distribution of needs-tested benefits by a government agency. (Sec. 1111) Amends SSA title XX (Block Grants to States for Social Services) to provide for a reduction in block grants to States for social services.
Bill· SS. 1795 (104th)open
United States · United States Congress · 22 May 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Division A: Reforming Non-Medical Welfare Programs Title I: Block Grants for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Title II: Supplemental Security Income Subtitle A: Eligibility Restrictions Subtitle B: Benefits for Disabled Children Subtitle C: State Supplementation Programs Subtitle D: Studies Regarding Supplemental Security Income Program Subtitle E: National Commission on the Future of Disability Subtitle F: Retirement Age Eligibility Title III: Child Support Subtitle A: Eligibility for Services; Distribution of Payments Subtitle B: Locate and Case Tracking Subtitle C: Streamlining and Uniformity of Procedures Subtitle D: Paternity Establishment Subtitle E: Program Administration and Funding Subtitle F: Establishment and Modification of Support Orders Subtitle G: Enforcement of Support Orders Subtitle H: Medical Support Subtitle I: Enhancing Responsibility and Opportunity for Non-Residential Parents Subtitle J: Effective Dates and Conforming Amendments Title IV: Restricting Welfare and Public Benefits for Aliens Subtitle A: Eligibility for Federal Benefits Subtitle B: Eligibility for State and Local Public Benefits Programs Subtitle C: Attribution of Income and Affidavits of Support Subtitle D: General Provisions Subtitle E: Conforming Amendments Subtitle F: Earned Income Credit Denied to Unauthorized Employees Title V: Reductions in Federal Government Positions Title VI: Reform of Public Housing Title VII: Child Protection Block Brant Programs and Foster Care, Adoption Assistance, and Independent Living Programs Subtitle A: Child Protection Block Grant Program and Foster Care, Adoption Assistance, and Independent Living Programs Subtitle B: Child and Family Services Block Grant Title VIII: Child Care Title IX: Child Nutrition Programs Subtitle A: National School Lunch Act Subtitle B: Child Nutrition Act of 1966 Title X: Food Stamps and Commodity Distribution Subtitle A: Food Stamp Program Subtitle B: Commodity Distribution Programs Title XI: Miscellaneous Division B: Restructuring Medicaid Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Act of 1996 - Division A: Reforming Non-Medical Welfare Programs - Title I: Block Grants For Temporary Assistance for Needy Families - Expresses the sense of the Congress that prevention of out-of-wedlock pregnancy and reduction in out-of-wedlock births are important Government interests. (Sec. 103) Replaces the current Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC) program under part A of title IV of the Social Security Act (SSA) with a single program of block grants to the States for operating statewide temporary assistance (TEA) programs with certain mandatory work, education, and job preparation requirements for needy families either already with or expecting a child, which are designed to assist such families in becoming self-sufficient. Limits such families generally to no more than five years of TEA cash assistance, with certain exceptions for minor children, battered family members, and hardship situations. Denies TEA assistance in cases where an individual family member is a fugitive felon or a probation or parole violator and in certain other specified situations as well. Requires, in addition, certain adult-supervised living arrangements for unmarried teenage parents. Provides for the exchange of TEA program information with law enforcement agencies under certain conditions. Establishes penalties for States and individual families for specified grant and program violations, respectively, through reduced grants and assistance payments, allowing States to terminate such payments to certain adult family members without small children needing child care who refuse to: (1) engage in work, educational, or job preparation activities (required program activities); or (2) cooperate with the State in establishing paternity or obtaining child support, unless the member qualifies for a good cause exception. Provides for a separate reduction in State family assistance grant payments for States failing to comply with Federal requirements under SSA title IV part D (Child Support and Establishment of Paternity) pertaining to paternity establishment and child support enforcement. Sets forth the mechanism for State appeal of Federal adverse decisions with respect to State plans or imposition of penalties, providing for advance notification of any program violation and the opportunity for a State to correct it before any such penalty is imposed. Limits the amount of any penalty reduction in the State's quarterly family assistance grant payment. Expresses the sense of the Congress that State TEA programs should: (1) assign the highest priority to requiring adults in two-parent families and in single-parent families with older preschool or school-age children to be engaged in required program activities; and (2) require noncustodial, nonsupporting parents under age 18 to fulfill community work obligations and attend appropriate parenting or money management classes after school. Specifies State TEA plan contents, including provisions for numeric goals for reducing illegitimacy in the State over a specified ten year period beginning in 1996, and certain certifications by the State that it will operate child support enforcement and protection programs, in order for it to be eligible (according to certain other criteria as well) to receive Federal grants for its TEA programs (family assistance grants). Allows the States to decide in their TEA plans: (1) whether or not they intend on providing TEA assistance to aliens; and (2) how to treat families moving interstate. Provides for: (1) the allowable uses of quarterly family assistance grants, family planning services and assistance to low income households in meeting home heating and cooling costs; (2) additional grants to States as rewards for reductions in illegitimate births and for high performance under the TEA program, as well as supplemental grants to certain States for population increases; and (3) a Contingency Fund for State Welfare Programs (Contingency Fund) in the Treasury for payments to certain eligible States. Makes appropriations for such grants and the Contingency Fund. Sets up a Federal loan program for State TEA programs for anti-fraud and other specified activities, making necessary appropriations. Outlines specific program data collection and reporting requirements, as well as certain research, evaluation, and study requirements. Provides for direct funding, by way of three-year tribal family assistance grants, to Indian tribes (with a special rule for Indian tribes in Alaska) with approved tribal family assistance plans. Directs the Bureau of the Census to expand the Survey of Income and Program Participation to obtain information that will enable interested persons to evaluate the impact of the changes made by this title on a random national sample of recipients of assistance under State programs. Provides for the treatment of existing State AFDC waivers in effect on the date of enactment of this Act and those granted subsequently. Retains the Assistant Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) for Family Support as the official responsible for administering SSA title IV part A and D programs. (Sec. 104) Allows States to contract with charitable, religious, and private organizations to provide services and administer programs established or modified under titles I, II, and VI of this Act. Prohibits the expenditure of financial assistance provided under such programs for sectarian worship, instruction, or proselytization. (Sec. 105) Directs the Secretary of Commerce to expand census data collection efforts to enable the Bureau of the Census to collect statistically significant data on grandparent caregivers. (Sec. 106) Requires an HHS report to the Congress on State automated data processing systems used in administering SSA title IV part A programs to determine what would be required to establish a system for tracking public program participants and checking case records to determine if such participants are participating in public programs of two or more States. (Sec. 107) Details requirements for a similar report, and study, on alternative outcomes measures for evaluating the success of the States in moving individuals off welfare through employment. (Sec. 108) Makes conforming amendments to SSA, the Food Stamp Act of 1977, and related provisions of other specified Federal laws. (Sec. 111) Directs the Commissioner of Social Security (Commissioner) to: (1) develop a prototype counterfeit-resistant social security card; and (2) study and issue a report to the Congress with regard to improving the social security card application process. (Sec. 112) Requires any organization accepting Federal funds under this Act to disclose that fact in any communication it makes that in any way intends to promote public support or opposition to any Federal, State, or local government policy through any broadcasting station, periodical, or other specified type of general public advertising. Makes any organization failing to make such a disclosure ineligible to receive Federal funds under this Act. (Sec. 113) Amends the Family Support Act of 1988 to remove the "demonstration" status of the Job Opportunities for Certain Low-Income Individuals (JOLI) program and give it an increased annual authorization for any fiscal year. Title II: Supplemental Security Income - Subtitle A: Eligibility Restrictions - Amends SSA title XVI to deny SSI for ten years to individuals found to have fraudulently misrepresented residence in order to obtain benefits simultaneously in two or more States. Denies SSI for fugitive felons and probation and parole violators. Provides for exchange of SSI information with law enforcement agencies under certain conditions. (Sec. 203) Revises the treatment afforded prisoners with regard to SSI and OASDI (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) benefits under SSA title II to: (1) deny SSI benefits for ten years to a person found to have fraudulently obtained SSI benefits while in prison; (2) eliminate the OASDI requirement that confinement stem from a crime punishable by imprisonment for more than one year; and (3) authorize the Commissioner to contract with any interested State or local institutions used to confine prisoners for monthly reports back of certain identifying information in order to enforce SSI and OASDI benefit limitations, and pay such institution a specified fee with regard to each SSI- or OASDI-eligible inmate identified who becomes ineligible for such benefit as a result of such reporting. Requires the Commissioner to study and report to the Congress on other specified potential improvements in the collection of information respecting public inmates. (Sec. 204) Makes certain changes respecting the effective date of applications for SSI benefits. Subtitle B: Benefits for Disabled Children - Revises the rules with respect to childhood eligibility, with corresponding changes to childhood SSI regulations modifying the medical criteria for evaluation of mental and emotional disorders, and discontinuing the use of individualized functional assessments for children. Modifies medical improvement review standards, specifically dividing their applicability to, and creating separate criteria for, individuals aged 18 or older, and individuals under age 18, respectively. (Sec. 211) Provides that once an eligible child meets the definition of disability, the amount of the individual's cash benefit will be based on whether or not the child meets criteria for needing personal assistance enabling the child to stay at home with his or her family. (Sec. 212) Provides that at least once every three years the Commissioner shall review the continued SSI eligibility of each individual who has not attained age 18 and is eligible for such benefits by reason of an impairment (or combination of impairments) which is likely to improve (or, at the Commissioner's option, is unlikely to improve). Requires a representative payee of a recipient whose case is so reviewed to present, at the time of review, evidence demonstrating that the recipient is, and has been, receiving treatment, to the extent considered medically necessary and available, for the condition which was the basis for providing benefits under the SSI program. Provides that if the representative payee refuses to comply without good cause with such requirement, the Commissioner shall, if in the individual's best interest, promptly terminate payment of benefits to the representative payee, and provide for payment of benefits to an alternative representative payee of the individual or, if the interest of the individual would be served thereby, to the individual. Provides that if an individual is eligible for SSI benefits by reason of disability for the month preceding the month in which the individual attains age 18, the Commissioner shall redetermine such eligibility: (1) during the one-year period beginning on the individual's 18th birthday; and (2) by applying the criteria used in determining the initial eligibility for applicants who have attained age 18. Specifies requirements governing continuing disability reviews for low-birth-weight babies. (Sec. 213) Revises provisions regarding the disposal of resources for less than fair market value by certain individuals and appropriate notification of Medicaid. Provides for the treatment of assets held in trust by individuals who have not attained age 18 and any earnings resulting from such trust. Requires representative payees of eligible individuals below age 18 to establish financial institution accounts on their behalf into which SSI payments shall be paid. Allows representative payees to use funds in the account to pay for certain allowable expenses. Directs the Commissioner to establish a system for accountability monitoring whereby a representative payee shall report on activities respecting funds in the account. (Sec. 214) Reduces cash SSI payments to institutionalized children whose medical costs are covered by private insurance. (Sec. 215) Provides for installment payment of large amounts of past-due SSI benefits, and the recovery of SSI overpayments from social security benefits. Subtitle C: State Supplementation Programs - Repeals maintenance of effort requirements applicable to optional State programs for supplementation of SSI benefits. Subtitle D: Studies Regarding Supplemental Security Income Program - Requires the Commissioner to prepare an annual report for the President and the Congress on the SSI program, and make appropriate arrangements for a study of the disability determination process under SSA titles II and XVI for any needed changes. (Sec. 233) Outlines the requirements for a study and report by the General Accounting Office on the impact of this title on the SSI program and on the extra expenses incurred by families of children receiving benefits under such program that are not covered by other Federal, State, or local programs. Subtitle E: National Commission on the Future of Disability - Establishes the National Commission on the Future of Disability to develop and carry out a comprehensive study of all matters related to the nature, purpose, and adequacy of all Federal programs serving individuals with disabilities in order to develop appropriate recommendations for any needed legislation or administrative action. Authorizes appropriations. Subtitle F: Retirement Age Eligibility - Provides that, for purposes of determining an aged individual under SSI, the age used shall be the retirement age used under the OASDI program. Title III: Child Support - Subtitle A: Eligibility for Services; Distribution of Payments - Amends part D (Child Support and Establishment of Paternity) of SSA title IV to require State plans for child and spousal support to provide: (1) certain services relating to paternity establishment or enforcement of child support obligations; and (2) continuation of services for families ceasing to receive assistance under Aid to Families with Dependent Children. (Sec. 302) Revises payment distribution guidelines for support obligations collected by the State on behalf of a family. (Sec. 303) Requires State plans to establish procedural guidelines for: (1) privacy safeguards regarding paternity and child support actions; and (2) notification to services applicants or recipients of all proceedings and orders affecting child support obligations. Subtitle B: Locate and Case Tracking - Mandates that single statewide automated data systems include a State case registry containing records of: (1) each case in which services are provided by the State agency; and (2) each support order established on or after a specified date. Permits the linking of local registries. (Sec. 312) Requires State plans to include a centralized, automated unit for the collection and disbursement of support payments. Permits the unit to be established by linking local disbursement units through an automated information network if the Secretary agrees that it will not cost more or take more time to establish or operate than a centralized system. (Sec. 313) Requires State plans to: (1) provide for a State-operated and automated State Directory of New Hires containing prescribed information furnished by employers on new personnel; and (2) transmit such information to the National Directory of New Hires. (Sec. 314) Requires States to have statutorily prescribed procedures: (1) for mandatory income withholding for support payments subject to enforcement; and (2) under which wages of a person with a support obligation imposed by a child support order issued before October 1, 1996, shall become subject to withholding if arrearages occur, without the need for a judicial or administrative hearing. Revises the procedural guidelines for income withholding for child support enforcement. (Sec. 315) Requires the States to have statutorily prescribed procedures to ensure that Federal and State agencies conducting income-withholding activities have access to State locator systems for motor vehicle or law enforcement purposes. (Sec. 316) Revises the Federal Parent Locator Service to provide for additional information which may be transmitted to locate individuals and assets for purposes of: (1) establishing parentage; (2) establishing, setting the amount of, modifying, or enforcing child support obligations; and (3) enforcing child custody or visitation orders. Directs the HHS Secretary to establish in the Federal Parent Locator Service an automated Federal Case Registry of Child Support Orders and an automated National Directory of New Hires. Requires the Secretaries of Labor and HHS to jointly develop cost-effective methods of accessing information in the various State directories of new hires and the National Directory of New Hires (established under this Act), taking into account impact and cost to the States, and the need to insure authorized use of wage record information. (Sec. 317) Requires States to have statutorily prescribed procedures requiring recordation on such documents of the Social Security number of: (1) specified driver's, marriage, and occupational, and professional license applicants; (2) individuals subject to certain domestic relations orders; and (3) deceased persons (on death records). Subtitle C: Streamlining and Uniformity of Procedures - Requires each State to have the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act in effect as of January 1, 1998. Amends the Federal judicial code to revise the procedures for the court to apply when determining which State order to recognize for purposes of continuing, exclusive jurisdiction and enforcement for child support orders. (Sec. 323) Requires the States to have statutorily prescribed procedures requiring: (1) expedited administrative enforcement in interstate cases and support orders; and (2) expedited administrative and judicial procedures for establishing paternity and enforcing support obligations. Subtitle D: Paternity Establishment - Revises the guidelines for State laws governing paternity establishment. Requires State procedures under which the name of the father shall be included on the birth certificate only: (1) if the mother and father have signed a voluntary acknowledgement of paternity; or (2) pursuant to a judicial or administrative order. (Sec. 333) Requires State plans for child and spousal support to provide that the State agency administering the plan will make a determination as to whether a program recipient is cooperating in good faith with State efforts to establish paternity and secure support. Subtitle E: Program Administration and Funding - Directs the Secretary to develop a new incentive system to replace the current one. Revises the guidelines for Federal performance-based incentive payments to the States for effective child support enforcement programs. (Sec. 342) Requires a State plan for child and spousal support to include prescribed procedures for State reviews and audits. Revises the guidelines for Federal evaluation and audit of State programs governing paternity, child and spousal support, and parent location. (Sec 344) Revises the automated data processing requirements for State plans to mandate a single statewide automated data processing and information retrieval system which can perform specified tasks. (Sec. 345) Makes funds available to the Secretary for: (1) training of Federal and State staff, research and demonstration programs, and special projects of regional and national significance; and (2) operation of the Federal Parent Locator Service. Subtitle F: Establishment and Modification of Support Orders - Revises the requirements for State plan procedures for the review and adjustment of support orders. (Sec. 352) Amends the Fair Credit Reporting Act to authorize a consumer agency to furnish a consumer report: (1) in response to a request by a governmental child support enforcement agency; or (2) to the State administrative agency which sets child support awards. (Sec. 353) Shields a depository institution from Federal or State liability for disclosing any financial record of an individual to a State child support enforcement agency. Prohibits such agency from disclosing such a financial record except for the purpose of, and to the extent necessary in, establishing, modifying, or enforcing a child support obligation. Sets forth civil penalties for any person knowingly or negligently violating such prohibition. Subtitle G: Enforcement of Support Orders - Amends Internal Revenue Code procedural guidelines for the collection of arrearages to provide that no additional fee may be assessed for adjustments to a previously certified amount. (Sec. 362) Amends part D (Child Support and Establishment of Paternity) of SSA title IV to revise procedural guidelines for: (1) consent by the United States to income withholding, garnishment, and similar proceedings for enforcement of child support and alimony obligations of current and retired Federal employees; and (2) enforcement of child support obligations of members of the Armed Forces. (Sec. 364) Requires a State plan for child and spousal support to have in effect the Uniform Fraudulent Conveyance Act of 1981, the Uniform Fraudulent Transfer Act of 1984, or a similar law, as well as certain procedures governing the voiding of fraudulent transfers by a child support debtor. (Sec. 365) Requires a State plan for child and spousal support to include specified procedures: (1) to ensure that persons owing past-due support work or participate in work activities the court deems appropriate; (2) to report to credit bureaus the name of the parent in arrears for child support; (3) to provide for liens against real and personal property for the support arrearages of a non-custodial parent; and (4) to implement the restriction of driver's, professional, occupational, and recreational licenses of individuals owing support arrearages. (Sec. 370) Requires the Secretary of State to deny, revoke, or limit a passport upon certification of nonpayment of child support. (Sec. 371) Authorizes the Secretary of State to negotiate reciprocal agreements with foreign nations: (1) regarding international enforcement of child support obligations; and (2) designating the Department of Health and Human Services as the central authority for such enforcement. (Sec. 372) Requires States to have statutorily prescribed procedures under which a State agency shall enter agreements with financial institutions doing business within the State to develop and operate a data match system to provide identifying information for each non-custodial parent targeted by the State who maintains an account at the institution, and to encumber or surrender such parent's assets at the institution pursuant to a lien or levy. (Sec. 373) Requires States to have statutorily prescribed procedures under which child support orders relating to the child of minor parents, where the custodial parents are receiving assistance, are enforceable against the child's paternal or maternal grandparents. (Sec. 374) Amends Federal bankruptcy law and the Social Security Act to declare a debt for child support nondischargeable in bankruptcy. Subtitle H: Medical Support - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) to include within the definition of medical child support order an order issued through a State administrative process. (Sec. 377) Amends part D of SSA title IV to mandate statutorily prescribed procedures under which all enforced child support orders shall include a provision for the health care coverage of the child. Subtitle I: Enhancing Responsibility and Opportunity for Non- Residential Parents - Amends part D of SSA title IV to prescribe guidelines under which the Administration for Children and Families shall make grants to enable States to establish and administer access and visitation programs to facilitate non-custodial parents' access to their children. Subtitle J: Effective Dates and Conforming Amendments - Sets forth effective dates and conforming amendments. Title IV: Restricting Welfare and Public Benefits for Aliens - Subtitle A: Eligibility for Federal Benefits - Prohibits (with exceptions) specified Federal benefits to nonqualified aliens. Limits (with exceptions) qualified alien access to other specified Federal programs. Requires the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to provide the Immigration and Naturalization Service with information on illegal aliens. Subtitle B: Eligibility for State and Local Public Benefits Programs - Sets forth similar prohibitions and limitations on alien access to State and local public benefits. Subtitle C: Attribution of Income and Affidavits of Support - Attributes a sponsor's (and spouse) income and resources to the alien sponsoree in determining eligibility for Federal means-tested public benefits. (Sec. 422) Authorizes States to make similar attributions. (Sec. 423) Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to set forth sponsor affidavit of support requirements. (Sec. 424) Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to require sponsor cosignature of alien student loans. Subtitle D: General Provisions - Directs the Attorney General to promulgate regulations for verification of Federal public benefits eligibility. (Sec. 435) Makes the determination of an alien's qualifying quarters under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act dependant upon whether or not a parent or spouse received Federal means-tested assistance during such quarters. Subtitle E: Conforming Amendments Related to Assisted Housing - Makes conforming amendments to the Housing and Community Development Act of 1980. Subtitle F: Earned Income Credit Denied to Unauthorized Employees - Amends the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to require a taxpayer to provide his or her social security number in order to qualify for the individual earned income credit. Title V: Reductions In Federal Government Positions - Outlines the mechanism for various specified Federal executive agency workforce reductions, requiring submission to specified congressional committees of certain determinations about the number of full-time equivalent (FTE) positions of their respective departments by the Secretaries of Agriculture, of Education, of Labor, of Housing and Urban Development, and of HHS. Requires the Secretaries to make FTE reductions, including reductions-in-force, resulting from such determinations over the ensuing 14 months. Requires the Comptroller General to analyze and report to such committees on such determinations, with recommendations for further FTE reductions, if appropriate. (Sec. 502) Requires the HHS Secretary to reduce the Federal workforce within HHS: (1) by 75 percent of the FTE positions relating to any direct spending program, or any program funded through discretionary spending, that has been converted into a block grant program by this Act; and (2) by 75 percent of a proportionate number of the total FTE departmental management positions. Requires reduction of FTE positions in HHS: (1) by 245 FTE positions related to the program converted by this Act into TEA block grants; and (2) by 60 FTE managerial positions. (Sec. 503) Encourages the HHS Secretary to reduce personnel in the Washington, D.C., area office (agency headquarters) before reducing field personnel. Title VI: Reform of Public Housing - Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to prohibit (with an exception) increased housing assistance under such Act due to reduced family income resulting from noncompliance reductions in welfare or other public assistance benefits. (Sec. 602) Prohibits an increase in federally appropriated means-tested welfare or public assistance due to reduced income resulting from fraud-caused reductions under another means-tested welfare or public assistance program. Title VII: Child Protection Block Grant Programs and Foster Care, Adoption Assistance and Independent Living Programs - Subtitle A: Child Protection Block Grant Program and Foster Care, Adoption Assistance, and Independent Living Programs - Replaces title IV-B (Child Welfare Services) with a block grant program to the States to implement: (1) child protection programs regarding child abuse and neglect; and (2) child protection. (Sec. 701) Prescribes guidelines under which the Secretary of Health and Human Services (the Secretary) shall: (1) establish a national data collection and analysis program to coordinate existing State child abuse and neglect reports; and (2) implement a data collection system regarding adoption and foster care. Appropriates funds for child welfare studies and for assessment of State courts improvement of foster care and adoption proceedings. (Sec. 711) Makes conforming amendments to Title IV-E (Foster Care and Adoption Assistance). Delineates requirements for State eligibility for Federal payments for foster care maintenance and adoption assistance. Sets forth guidelines for payments and allotments to the States for adoption assistance, foster care, and independent living programs (designed to assist children who have attained age 16 to make the transition from foster care to independent living). (Sec. 731) Instructs the Secretary to submit a legislative proposal to certain congressional committees providing for technical and conforming amendments in the law, pursuant to this Act. (Sec. 732) Expresses the sense of the Congress that States should: (1) allocate sufficient funds for adoption and medical assistance to encourage child adoption; (2) offer incentives to make adoption of special needs children more affordable for middle-class families; (3) provide a child that must be removed from its biological parents with a single foster care placement and single coordinated case team, including conclusion of adoption within one year of such child's foster care placement; and (4) participate in programs to enable maximum visibility of waiting children to potential parents. Subtitle B: Child and Family Services Block Grant - Renames the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act as the Child and Family Services Block Grant Act of 1996. Changes the purposes of the Act to emphasize assistance to each State in improving child protective service systems. Delineates criteria governing State eligibility for Federal block grants for: (1) child and family services; and (2) research, demonstrations, training, and technical assistance. (Sec. 751) Abolishes the current Federal program, including the Advisory Board on Child Abuse and Neglect, the Inter-Agency Task Force on Child Abuse and Neglect, the National Center on Child Abuse and Neglect, community-based family resource programs, temporary child care for children with disabilities, crisis nursery demonstration programs, certain preventive services for children of homeless families or families at risk of homelessness, and requirements for criminal background checks for child care providers. Instructs the Secretary to: (1) establish a national child abuse and neglect data collection and analysis program (in addition to the current national clearinghouse for information relating to child abuse); (2) provide technical and training assistance to the States for child abuse and neglect programs and for adoption opportunities. Mandates peer review for such grants. Instructs the Secretary to conduct a national random sample study of children at risk of child abuse or neglect. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1996 through 2002, including grants for demonstration projects. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to States to assist them in developing programs related to the investigation and prosecution of child abuse and neglect cases. Requires any State requesting such assistance to establish a multidisciplinary task force on children's justice to study administrative, civil, and criminal judicial handling of such cases, and make recommendations which the State must adopt (or equivalent alternatives). Title VIII: Child Care - Child Care and Development Block Grant Amendments of 1996 - Revises and extends through FY 2002 the authorization of appropriations for the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 1990 (the Act, for purposes of this title). Sets forth goals for State child care assistance. (Sec. 803) Amends Part A of title IV (AFDC) of the Social Security Act to entitle each State to payments for providing child care assistance. (Sec. 804) Authorizes the State lead agency to administer the financial assistance it receives through other governmental or nongovernmental agencies. (Sec. 805) Revises State application and plan requirements with respect to consumer education information, State licensing compliance, meeting the needs of AFDC or TEA recipients (especially those attempting through work activities to leave the assistance program) and those at risk of becoming dependent on assistance, and assistance for certain low-income working families. (Sec. 807) Reduces from 20 percent to three percent the minimum amount of certain funds available for State activities to improve the quality of child care, limited to: (1) comprehensive consumer education to parents and the public; (2) activities increasing parental choice; and (3) activities designed to improve child care quality and availability. (Sec. 808) Repeals a requirement that States expend a specified minimum amount of reserved funds for early childhood development and before- and after-school services. (Sec. 813) Reduces the allotment reserved for Indian tribes or tribal organizations from three percent to one percent. Prescribes guidelines for the use of such allotment for facility repair and construction. (Sec. 815) Repeals: (1) the Child Development Associate Scholarship Assistance Act of 1985; (2) the State Dependent Care Development Grants Act; (3) specified programs under title X (Programs of National Significance) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 and (4) the Native Hawaiian Family-based Education Centers program under the Native Hawaiian Education Act. Title IX: Child Nutrition Programs - Subtitle A: National School Lunch Act - Amends the National School Lunch Act (NSLA) to repeal specified authorities and requirements for the school lunch and related programs, including: (1) State educational authority to use resources from the nutrition and education (NET) program; (2) prohibition of State imposition of teaching personnel and curriculum requirements at any school; (3) certain demonstration grants to private nonprofit organizations or educational institutions for elementary school curriculum food and nutrition projects; (4) aspects of summer food service programs, reducing payment rates and daily meals at camps, reducing the National Youth Sports Program, and revising nutritional standards compliance requirements; (5) certain commodity distribution program requirements, including State Advisory Councils; (6) expansion of the child care food program; (7) adult care food aid to adult day care centers and services for persons over 60; (8) certain pilot projects, including one for paperwork reduction; and (9) an information clearinghouse. (Sec. 901) Includes in the definition of child any individual with one or more mental or physical disabilities, regardless of age, who attends a specified type of institution, or any nonresidential public or nonprofit private school of high school grade or under, in order to participate in a school program for such individuals. (Sec. 902) Revises nutritional requirements. (Sec. 905) Prohibits, in general, any waiver that will increase Federal costs. Subtitle B: Child Nutrition Act of 1966 - Amends the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 (CNA) to revise the school breakfast program: (1) eliminating Federal assistance for food preparation training and program expansion and start-up costs; (2) repealing certain authorities and requirements relating to State administrative expenses (SAE); (3) repealing the prohibition against State imposition of teaching personnel and curriculum requirements at any school; (4) repealing the program of cash grants for nutrition education. Revises the special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, and children (WIC), among other things repealing specified requirements and changing from mandatory to optional: (1) drug abuse education; and (2) provision of WIC information in languages other than English. (Sec. 931) Makes revisions to the nutrition education and training program. Authorizes appropriations. Title X: Food Stamps and Commodity Distribution - Food Stamp Reform and Commodity Distribution Act of 1996 - Subtitle A: Food Stamp Program - Amends the Food Stamp Act of 1977 (Act) to establish a maximum 24-month food stamp program (program) authorization period for households whose adult members are elderly or disabled. (Sec. 1012) Expands the definition of "coupon." (Sec. 1013) Treats children who are themselves parents living with their children and married children living with their spouses as part of an existing household rather than as a separate household. (Sec. 1014) Authorizes States to establish additional criteria for separate household determinations. (Sec. 1015) Revises thrifty food plan adjustment requirements. (Sec. 1016) Revises the definition of "homeless individual" to limit the length of time a person may temporarily live in another person's residence. (Sec. 1018) Revises household income exclusion provisions regarding: (1) students; and (2) Federal energy assistance. (Sec. 1020) Revises household income deduction provisions regarding: (1) standard deductions; (2) earned income; (3) dependent care; (4) child support payments; (5) homeless shelter assistance; (6) excess medical expenses; and (7) excess shelter expenses. (Sec. 1021) Eliminates specified excludable auto value increases and establishes the maximum excludable auto value at $4600. (Sec. 1022) Includes as household income third party payments for transitional housing for the homeless. (Sec. 1023) Increases penalties for certain program violations. (Sec. 1024) Disqualifies permanently an individual convicted of specified coupon violations. (Sec. 1025) Revises work requirement and employment and training provisions. Extends employment and training funding authorizations. (Sec. 1028) Authorizes comparable program disqualification based upon welfare or public assistance disqualification. (Sec. 1029) Disqualifies permanently an individual who participates in the program in two or more States. (Sec. 1030) Disqualifies a fleeing felon from program participation. (Sec. 1031) Requires at State option: (1) cooperation with child support agencies in order to maintain program eligibility; and (2) program disqualification for child support arrears. (Sec. 1033) Defines "work program." Makes nonexempt persons ineligible for program benefits if during the preceding 12-month period they received food stamps for four months or more without working at least 20 hours per week, or participating in a workfare program. Sets forth exempted persons and situations. (Sec. 1034) Directs States to implement electronic benefit transfer systems. (Sec. 1035) Eliminates annual minimum allotment adjustments. (Sec. 1037) Authorizes a combined allotment for expedited households. (Sec. 1038) Authorizes program reductions for failure to comply with a public assistance reduction requirement. (Sec. 1039) Authorizes program assistance for households residing in a homeless shelter or drug or alcohol treatment center. (Sec. 1040) Provides that no food store or wholesale food concern be approved for program participation without a prior visit by a Department of Agriculture employee, or whenever possible, a designated State or local official. (Sec. 1041) Directs the Secretary of Agriculture (Secretary) to establish authorization periods for retail food stores and wholesale food concerns to redeem food stamps or benefits through an electronic benefit transfer system. (Sec. 1042) Includes income and sales tax information among the types of eligibility verification information that may be requested. (Sec. 1043) Establishes a six-month reapplication waiting period for a store that does not meet participation requirements. (Sec. 1044) Revises: (1) food stamp office operating provisions; and (2) expedited coupon service requirements. (Sec. 1045) Eliminates certain certification personnel training requirements. (Sec. 1046) Provides for the exchange of information with law enforcement or Immigration and Naturalization Service personnel. (Sec. 1048) Authorizes a family to withdraw a fair hearing request. (Sec. 1049) Permits States to use income, and immigration eligibility verification systems other than the system used in part A (General Provisions) of title XI (General Provisions and Peer Review) of the Social Security Act. (Sec. 1050) Provides for disqualification of a store: (1) that knowingly submits a falsified application; and (2) that is disqualified from the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). (Sec. 1052) Directs program overissuances to be collected by: (1) allotment reduction; (2) unemployment compensation withholding; or (3) Federal pay or Federal income tax refund recovery. (Sec. 1053) Authorizes suspension of a store pending administrative and judicial review. (States that the Secretary shall not be liable for lost sales during such period.) (Sec. 1054) Establishes criminal forfeiture penalties for specified program violations. (Sec. 1055) Terminates Federal matching requirements for program recruitment activities. (Sec. 1057) Authorizes States to use funds otherwise available to a participating household for a work supplementation or support program. Sets forth program provisions. (Sec. 1058) Authorizes waiver of program requirements as necessary to conduct related pilot projects. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 1061) Authorizes States to carry out private sector employment initiatives. Sets forth program provisions. (Sec. 1062) Authorizes appropriations for program operations. (Sec. 1063) Authorizes States to carry out a Simplified Food Stamp Program in lieu of existing program requirements. Sets forth program provisions. (Sec. 1064) Establishes an optional State food assistance block grant program in lieu of the food stamp program. Sets forth program provisions. Subtitle B: Commodity Distribution Programs - Amends the Emergency Food Assistance Act of 1983 to combine the emergency food assistance program with the soup kitchen-food bank program. Amends the Act to direct the Secretary to purchase commodities for such combined programs. (Sec. 1072) Amends the Charitable Assistance and Food Bank Act of 1987 to repeal the food bank demonstration project. (Sec. 1073) Makes conforming amendments to the Hunger Prevention Act of 1988. Title XI: Miscellaneous - Requires any funds received by a State under the TEA program, the optional State food assistance block grant program under the Food Stamp Act of 1977, or the child care block grant program under the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 1990, to be expended only in accordance with the laws and procedures applicable to expenditures of the State's own revenues, including appropriation by the State legislature, consistent with the terms and conditions required under such provisions of law. (Sec. 1102) Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to eliminate housing assistance with respect to fugitive felons and probation and parole violators, and provide for the exchange of certain housing information with law enforcement agencies upon request for specified official purposes. (Sec. 1103) Expresses the sense of the Senate that the Congress should adopt enterprise zone legislation in the 104th Congress, and that such legislation provide various specified incentives and provisions, such as Federal tax incentives that expand access to capital, increase the formation and expansion of small businesses, and promote commercial revitalization. (Sec. 1104) Expresses the sense of the Senate that: (1) States should diligently continue their efforts to enforce child support payments by the non-custodial parent to the custodial parent, regardless of the employment status or location of the non-custodial parent; and (2) States are encouraged to pursue pilot programs in which the parents of a non-adult, non-custodial parent who refuses to or is unable to pay child support must pay or contribute to the child support owed by the non-custodial parent or otherwise fulfill all financial obligations and meet all conditions imposed on the non-custodial parent, such as participation in a work program or other related activity. (Sec. 1105) Amends the Food Stamp Act of 1977 to modify the eligibility disqualifications for aliens to give State agencies the option of considering either all income and financial resources of the individual rendered ineligible to participate in the food stamp program, or such income, less a pro rata share, and the financial resources of the ineligible individual, to determine the eligibility and the value of the allotment of the household of which such individual is a member. (Sec. 1106) Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to establish and implement a certain strategy for: (1) preventing out-of-wedlock teenage pregnancies; and (2) assuring that at least 25 percent of the communities in the United States have teenage pregnancy prevention programs in place. (Sec. 1107) Expresses the sense of the Senate that States and local jurisdictions should aggressively enforce statutory rape laws. (Sec. 1108) Provides that States shall not be prohibited by the Federal Government from sanctioning welfare recipients who test positive for the use of controlled substances. (Sec. 1109) Amends SSA title V (Maternal and Child Health Services) to provide for an increase in funding under such title and authorize the provision of abstinence education, along with a separate funding set-aside for it. (Sec. 1110) Amends the Electronic Fund Transfer Act to make certain amendments in order to encourage electronic benefit transfer systems for the distribution of needs-tested benefits by a government agency. (Sec. 1111) Amends SSA title XX (Block Grants to States for Social Services) to provide for a reduction in block grants to States for social services. Division B: Restructuring Medicaid - Medicaid Restructuring Act of 1996 - Amends SSA to add a new title XV (Program of Medical Assistance for Low-Income Individuals and Families), the stated purpose of which is to provide funds to States to enable them to provide medical assistance to low-income individuals and families in a more effective, efficient, and responsive manner. (Sec. 2003) Outlines program components, including key provisions for: (1) certain guaranteed benefits for select individuals, including certain poor pregnant women, disabled and poor elderly individuals, and children receiving foster care or adoption assistance; (2) guaranteed coverage of Medicare premiums and cost-sharing for certain Medicare beneficiaries; (3) only nominal cost-sharing for children and pregnant women with regard to primary and preventive care services; (4) prevention of spousal and family impoverishment with regard to long-term care; (5) State flexibility in benefits, provider payments, geographical coverage area, and selection of providers; (6) coverage of abortions only for pregnancies resulting from rape or incest or when a woman suffers from a physical disorder, illness, or injury that would, as certified by a physician, place the woman in danger of death unless an abortion is performed; (7) denial of payment under the State Medicaid plan for any item or service furnished for euthanasia purposes; (8) limitation on payments for Medicaid services to nonlawful aliens, generally allowing treatment only in emergency situations; (9) periodic, independent evaluations and audits under the program; (10) a separate fraud prevention program, as well as, under certain conditions, State fraud control units; (11) an information reporting system with regard to actions taken by State licensing authorities against health care practitioners and providers; (12) quality assurance requirements for nursing facilities, as well as requirements relating to residents' rights; and (13) an optional master drug rebate agreement program for covered outpatient drugs of a manufacturer. (Sec. 2004) Terminates the current Medicaid program as of October 1, 1997. Sets a limitation on Medicaid payments in FY 1997. (Sec. 2005) Directs the HHS Secretary to waive such requirements of SSA titles XV and XVIII as may be necessary for States to conduct certain demonstration projects to use funds to develop and implement innovative programs for individuals dually eligible for benefits under both titles, including such individuals who are chronically ill.
Bill· HRH.R. 3507 (104th)open
United States · United States Congress · 22 May 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Division A: Reforming Non-Medical Welfare Programs Title I: Block Grants for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Title II: Supplemental Security Income Subtitle A: Eligibility Restrictions Subtitle B: Benefits for Disabled Children Subtitle C: State Supplementation Programs Subtitle D: Studies Regarding Supplemental Security Income Program Subtitle E: National Commission on the Future of Disability Subtitle F: Retirement Age Eligibility Title III: Child Support Subtitle A: Eligibility for Services; Distribution of Payments Subtitle B: Locate and Case Tracking Subtitle C: Streamlining and Uniformity of Procedures Subtitle D: Paternity Establishment Subtitle E: Program Administration and Funding Subtitle F: Establishment and Modification of Support Orders Subtitle G: Enforcement of Support Orders Subtitle H: Medical Support Subtitle I: Enhancing Responsibility and Opportunity for Non-Residential Parents Subtitle J: Effective Dates and Conforming Amendments Title IV: Restricting Welfare and Public Benefits for Aliens Subtitle A: Eligibility for Federal Benefits Subtitle B: Eligibility for State and Local Public Benefits Programs Subtitle C: Attribution of Income and Affidavits of Support Subtitle D: General Provisions Subtitle E: Conforming Amendments Subtitle F: Earned Income Credit Denied to Unauthorized Employees Title V: Reductions in Federal Government Positions Title VI: Reform of Public Housing Title VII: Child Protection Block Grant Programs and Foster Care, Adoption Assistance, and Independent Living Programs Subtitle A: Child Protection Block Grant Program and Foster Care, Adoption Assistance, and Independent Living Programs Subtitle B: Child and Family Services Block Grant Title VIII: Child Care Title IX: Child Nutrition Programs Subtitle A: National School Lunch Act Subtitle B: Child Nutrition Act of 1966 Title X: Food Stamps and Commodity Distribution Subtitle A: Food Stamp Program Subtitle B: Commodity Distribution Programs Title XI: Miscellaneous Division B: Restructuring Medicaid Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Act of 1996 - Division A: Reforming Non-Medical Welfare Programs - Title I: Block Grants for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families - Expresses the sense of the Congress that prevention of out-of-wedlock pregnancy and reduction in out-of-wedlock births are important Government interests. (Sec. 103) Replaces the current Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC) program under part A of title IV of the Social Security Act (SSA) with a single program of block grants to the States for operating statewide temporary assistance (TEA) programs with certain mandatory work, education, and job preparation requirements for needy families either already with or expecting a child, which are designed to assist such families in becoming self-sufficient. Limits such families generally to no more than five years of TEA cash assistance, with certain exceptions for minor children, battered family members, and hardship situations. Denies TEA assistance in cases where an individual family member is a fugitive felon or a probation or parole violator and in certain other specified situations as well. Requires, in addition, certain adult-supervised living arrangements for unmarried teenage parents. Provides for the exchange of TEA program information with law enforcement agencies under certain conditions. Establishes penalties for States and individual families for specified grant and program violations, respectively, through reduced grants and assistance payments, allowing States to terminate such payments to certain adult family members without small children needing child care who refuse to: (1) engage in work, educational, or job preparation activities (required program activities); or (2) cooperate with the State in establishing paternity or obtaining child support, unless the member qualifies for a good cause exception. Provides for a separate reduction in State family assistance grant payments for States failing to comply with Federal requirements under SSA title IV part D (Child Support and Establishment of Paternity) pertaining to paternity establishment and child support enforcement. Sets forth the mechanism for State appeal of Federal adverse decisions with respect to State plans or imposition of penalties, providing for advance notification of any program violation and the opportunity for a State to correct it before any such penalty is imposed. Limits the amount of any penalty reduction in the State's quarterly family assistance grant payment. Expresses the sense of the Congress that State TEA programs should: (1) assign the highest priority to requiring adults in two-parent families and in single-parent families with older preschool or school-age children to be engaged in required program activities; and (2) require noncustodial, nonsupporting parents under age 18 to fulfill community work obligations and attend appropriate parenting or money management classes after school. Specifies State TEA plan contents, including provisions for numeric goals for reducing illegitimacy in the State over a specified ten year period beginning in 1996, and certain certifications by the State that it will operate child support enforcement and protection programs, in order for it to be eligible (according to certain other criteria as well) to receive Federal grants for its TEA programs (family assistance grants). Allows the States to decide in their TEA plans: (1) whether or not they intend on providing TEA assistance to aliens; and (2) how to treat families moving interstate. Provides for: (1) the allowable uses of quarterly family assistance grants, family planning services and assistance to low income households in meeting home heating and cooling costs; (2) additional grants to States as rewards for reductions in illegitimate births and for high performance under the TEA program, as well as supplemental grants to certain States for population increases; and (3) a Contingency Fund for State Welfare Programs (Contingency Fund) in the Treasury for payments to certain eligible States. Makes appropriations for such grants and the Contingency Fund. Sets up a Federal loan program for State TEA programs for anti-fraud and other specified activities, making necessary appropriations. Outlines specific program data collection and reporting requirements, as well as certain research, evaluation, and study requirements. Provides for direct funding, by way of three-year tribal family assistance grants, to Indian tribes (with a special rule for Indian tribes in Alaska) with approved tribal family assistance plans. Directs the Bureau of the Census to expand the Survey of Income and Program Participation to obtain information that will enable interested persons to evaluate the impact of the changes made by this title on a random national sample of recipients of assistance under State programs. Provides for the treatment of existing State AFDC waivers in effect on the date of enactment of this Act and those granted subsequently. Retains the Assistant Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) for Family Supports as the official responsible for administering SSA title IV part A and D programs. (Sec. 104) Allows States to contract with charitable, religious, and private organizations to provide services and administer programs established or modified under titles I, II, and VI of this Act. Prohibits the expenditure of financial assistance provided under such programs for sectarian worship, instruction, or proselytization. (Sec. 105) Directs the Secretary of Commerce to expand census data collection efforts to enable the Bureau of the Census to collect statistically significant data on grandparent caregivers. (Sec. 106) Requires an HHS report to the Congress on State automated data processing systems used in administering SSA title IV part A programs to determine what would be required to establish a system for tracking public program participants and checking case records to determine if such participants are participating in public programs of two or more States. (Sec. 107) Details requirements for a similar report, and study, on alternative outcomes measures for evaluating the success of the States in moving individuals off welfare through employment. (Sec. 108) Makes conforming amendments to SSA, the Food Stamp Act of 1977, and related provisions of other specified Federal laws. (Sec. 111) Directs the Commissioner of Social Security (Commissioner) to: (1) develop a prototype counterfeit-resistant social security card; and (2) study and issue a report to the Congress with regard to improving the social security card application process. (Sec. 112) Requires any organization accepting Federal funds under this Act to disclose that fact in any communication it makes that in any way intends to promote public support or opposition to any Federal, State, or local government policy through any broadcasting station, periodical, or other specified type of general public advertising. Makes any organization failing to make such a disclosure ineligible to receive Federal funds under this Act. (Sec. 113) Amends the Family Support Act of 1988 to remove the "demonstration" status of the Job Opportunities for Certain Low-Income Individuals (JOLI) program and give it an increased annual authorization for any fiscal year. Title II: Supplemental Security Income - Subtitle A: Eligibility Restrictions - Amends SSA title XVI to deny SSI for ten years to individuals found to have fraudulently misrepresented residence in order to obtain benefits simultaneously in two or more States. Denies SSI for fugitive felons and probation and parole violators. Provides for exchange of SSI information with law enforcement agencies under certain conditions. (Sec. 203) Revises the treatment afforded prisoners with regard to SSI and OASDI (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) benefits under SSA title II to: (1) deny SSI benefits for ten years to a person found to have fraudulently obtained SSI benefits while in prison; (2) eliminate the OASDI requirement that confinement stem from a crime punishable by imprisonment for more than one year; and (3) authorize the Commissioner to contract with any interested State or local institutions used to confine prisoners for monthly reports back of certain identifying information in order to enforce SSI and OASDI benefit limitations, and pay such institution a specified fee with regard to each SSI- or OASDI-eligible inmate identified who becomes ineligible for such benefit as a result of such reporting. Requires the Commissioner to study and report to the Congress on other specified potential improvements in the collection of information respecting public inmates. (Sec. 204) Makes certain changes respecting the effective date of applications for SSI benefits. Subtitle B: Benefits for Disabled Children - Revises the rules with respect to childhood eligibility, with corresponding changes to childhood SSI regulations modifying the medical criteria for evaluation of mental and emotional disorders, and discontinuing the use of individualized functional assessments for children. Modifies medical improvement review standards, specifically dividing their applicability to, and creating separate criteria for, individuals aged 18 or older, and individuals under age 18, respectively. (Sec. 211) Provides that once an eligible child meets the definition of disability, the amount of the individual's cash benefit will be based on whether or not the child meets criteria for needing personal assistance enabling the child to stay at home with his or her family. (Sec. 212) Provides that at least once every three years the Commissioner shall review the continued SSI eligibility of each individual who has not attained age 18 and is eligible for such benefits by reason of an impairment (or combination of impairments) which is likely to improve (or, at the Commissioner's option, is unlikely to improve). Requires a representative payee of a recipient whose case is so reviewed to present, at the time of review, evidence demonstrating that the recipient is, and has been, receiving treatment, to the extent considered medically necessary and available, for the condition which was the basis for providing benefits under the SSI program. Provides that if the representative payee refuses to comply without good cause with such requirement, the Commissioner shall, if in the individual's best interest, promptly terminate payment of benefits to the representative payee, and provide for payment of benefits to an alternative representative payee of the individual or, if the interest of the individual would be served thereby, to the individual. Provides that if an individual is eligible for SSI benefits by reason of disability for the month preceding the month in which the individual attains age 18, the Commissioner shall redetermine such eligibility: (1) during the one-year period beginning on the individual's 18th birthday; and (2) by applying the criteria used in determining the initial eligibility for applicants who have attained age 18. Specifies requirements governing continuing disability reviews for low-birth-weight babies. (Sec. 213) Revises provisions regarding the disposal of resources for less than fair market value by certain individuals and appropriate notification of Medicaid. Provides for the treatment of assets held in trust by individuals who have not attained age 18 and any earnings resulting from such trust. Requires representative payees of eligible individuals below age 18 to establish financial institution accounts on their behalf into which SSI payments shall be paid. Allows representative payees to use funds in the account to pay for certain allowable expenses. Directs the Commissioner to establish a system for accountability monitoring whereby a representative payee shall report on activities respecting funds in the account. (Sec. 214) Reduces cash SSI payments to institutionalized children whose medical costs are covered by private insurance. (Sec. 215) Provides for installment payment of large amounts of past-due SSI benefits, and the recovery of SSI overpayments from social security benefits. Subtitle C: State Supplementation Programs - Repeals maintenance of effort requirements applicable to optional State programs for supplementation of SSI benefits. Subtitle D: Studies Regarding Supplemental Security Income Program - Requires the Commissioner to prepare an annual report for the President and the Congress on the SSI program, and make appropriate arrangements for a study of the disability determination process under SSA titles II and XVI for any needed changes. (Sec. 233) Outlines the requirements for a study and report by the General Accounting Office on the impact of this title on the SSI program and on the extra expenses incurred by families of children receiving benefits under such program that are not covered by other Federal, State, or local programs. Subtitle E: National Commission on the Future of Disability - Establishes the National Commission on the Future of Disability to develop and carry out a comprehensive study of all matters related to the nature, purpose, and adequacy of all Federal programs serving individuals with disabilities in order to develop appropriate recommendations for any needed legislation or administrative action. Authorizes appropriations. Subtitle F: Retirement Age Eligibility - Provides that, for purposes of determining an aged individual under SSI, the age used shall be the retirement age used under the OASDI program. Title III: Child Support - Subtitle A: Eligibility for Services; Distribution of Payments - Amends part D (Child Support and Establishment of Paternity) of SSA title IV to require State plans for child and spousal support to provide: (1) certain services relating to paternity establishment or enforcement of child support obligations; and (2) continuation of services for families ceasing to receive assistance under Aid to Families with Dependent Children. (Sec. 302) Revises payment distribution guidelines for support obligations collected by the State on behalf of a family. (Sec. 303) Requires State plans to establish procedural guidelines for: (1) privacy safeguards regarding paternity and child support actions; and (2) notification to services applicants or recipients of all proceedings and orders affecting child support obligations. Subtitle B: Locate and Case Tracking - Mandates that single statewide automated data systems include a State case registry containing records of: (1) each case in which services are provided by the State agency; and (2) each support order established on or after a specified date. Permits the linking of local registries. (Sec. 312) Requires State plans to include a centralized, automated unit for the collection and disbursement of support payments. Permits the unit to be established by linking local disbursement units through an automated information network if the Secretary agrees that it will not cost more or take more time to establish or operate than a centralized system. (Sec. 313) Requires State plans to: (1) provide for a State-operated and automated State Directory of New Hires containing prescribed information furnished by employers on new personnel; and (2) transmit such information to the National Directory of New Hires. (Sec. 314) Requires States to have statutorily prescribed procedures: (1) for mandatory income withholding for support payments subject to enforcement; and (2) under which wages of a person with a support obligation imposed by a child support order issued before October 1, 1996, shall become subject to withholding if arrearages occur, without the need for a judicial or administrative hearing. Revises the procedural guidelines for income withholding for child support enforcement. (Sec. 315) Requires States to have statutorily prescribed procedures to ensure that Federal and State agencies conducting income-withholding activities have access to State locator systems for motor vehicle or law enforcement purposes. (Sec. 316) Revises the Federal Parent Locator Service to provide for additional information which may be transmitted to locate individuals and assets for purposes of: (1) establishing parentage; (2) establishing, setting the amount of, modifying, or enforcing child support obligations; and (3) enforcing child custody or visitation orders. Directs the HHS Secretary to establish in the Federal Parent Locator Service an automated Federal Case Registry of Child Support Orders and an automated National Directory of New Hires. Requires the Secretaries of Labor and HHS to jointly develop cost-effective methods of accessing information in the various State directories of new hires and the National Directory of New Hires (established under this Act), taking into account impact and cost to the States, and the need to ensure authorized use of wage record information. (Sec. 317) Requires States to have statutorily prescribed procedures requiring recordation on such documents of the social security number of: (1) specified driver's, marriage, and occupational, and professional license applicants; (2) individuals subject to certain domestic relations orders; and (3) deceased persons (on death records). Subtitle C: Streamlining and Uniformity of Procedures - Requires each State to have the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act in effect as of January 1, 1998. Amends the Federal judicial code to revise the procedures for the court to apply when determining which State order to recognize for purposes of continuing, exclusive jurisdiction and enforcement for child support orders. (Sec. 323) Requires the States to have statutorily prescribed procedures requiring: (1) expedited administrative enforcement in interstate cases and support orders; and (2) expedited administrative and judicial procedures for establishing paternity and enforcing support obligations. Subtitle D: Paternity Establishment - Revises the guidelines for State laws governing paternity establishment. Requires State procedures under which the name of the father shall be included on the birth certificate only: (1) if the mother and father have signed a voluntary acknowledgment of paternity; or (2) pursuant to a judicial or administrative order. (Sec. 333) Requires State plans for child and spousal support to provide that the State agency administering the plan will make a determination as to whether a program recipient is cooperating in good faith with State efforts to establish paternity and secure support. Subtitle E: Program Administration and Funding - Directs the Secretary to develop a new incentive system to replace the current one. Revises the guidelines for Federal performance-based incentive payments to the States for effective child support enforcement programs. (Sec. 342) Requires a State plan for child and spousal support to include prescribed procedures for State reviews and audits. Revises the guidelines for Federal evaluation and audit of State programs governing paternity, child and spousal support, and parent location. (Sec 344) Revises the automated data processing requirements for State plans to mandate a single statewide automated data processing and information retrieval system which can perform specified tasks. (Sec. 345) Makes funds available to the Secretary for: (1) training of Federal and State staff, research and demonstration programs, and special projects of regional and national significance; and (2) operation of the Federal Parent Locator Service. Subtitle F: Establishment and Modification of Support Orders - Revises the requirements for State plan procedures for the review and adjustment of support orders. (Sec. 352) Amends the Fair Credit Reporting Act to authorize a consumer agency to furnish a consumer report: (1) in response to a request by a governmental child support enforcement agency; or (2) to the State administrative agency which sets child support awards. (Sec. 353) Shields a depository institution from Federal or State liability for disclosing any financial record of an individual to a State child support enforcement agency. Prohibits such agency from disclosing such a financial record except for the purpose of, and to the extent necessary in, establishing, modifying, or enforcing a child support obligation. Sets forth civil penalties for any person knowingly or negligently violating such prohibition. Subtitle G: Enforcement of Support Orders - Amends Internal Revenue Code procedural guidelines for the collection of arrearages to provide that no additional fee may be assessed for adjustments to a previously certified amount. (Sec. 362) Amends part D (Child Support and Establishment of Paternity) of SSA title IV to revise procedural guidelines for: (1) consent by the United States to income withholding, garnishment, and similar proceedings for enforcement of child support and alimony obligations of current and retired Federal employees; and (2) enforcement of child support obligations of members of the Armed Forces. (Sec. 364) Requires a State plan for child and spousal support to have in effect the Uniform Fraudulent Conveyance Act of 1981, the Uniform Fraudulent Transfer Act of 1984, or a similar law, as well as certain procedures governing the voiding of fraudulent transfers by a child support debtor. (Sec. 365) Requires a State plan for child and spousal support to include specified procedures: (1) to ensure that persons owing past-due support work or participate in work activities the court deems appropriate; (2) to report to credit bureaus the name of the parent in arrears for child support; (3) to provide for liens against real and personal property for the support arrearages of a non-custodial parent; and (4) to implement the restriction of driver's, professional, occupational, and recreational licenses of individuals owing support arrearages. (Sec. 370) Requires the Secretary of State to deny, revoke, or limit a passport upon certification of nonpayment of child support. (Sec. 371) Authorizes the Secretary of State to negotiate reciprocal agreements with foreign nations: (1) regarding international enforcement of child support obligations; and (2) designating the Department of Health and Human Services as the central authority for such enforcement. (Sec. 372) Requires States to have statutorily prescribed procedures under which a State agency shall enter agreements with financial institutions doing business within the State to develop and operate a data match system to provide identifying information for each non-custodial parent targeted by the State who maintains an account at the institution, and to encumber or surrender such parent's assets at the institution pursuant to a lien or levy. (Sec. 373) Requires States to have statutorily prescribed procedures under which child support orders relating to the child of minor parents, where the custodial parents are receiving assistance, are enforceable against the child's paternal or maternal grandparents. (Sec. 374) Amends Federal bankruptcy law and the Social Security Act to declare a debt for child support nondischargeable in bankruptcy. Subtitle H: Medical Support - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) to include within the definition of medical child support order an order issued through a State administrative process. (Sec. 377) Amends part D of SSA title IV to mandate statutorily prescribed procedures under which all enforced child support orders shall include a provision for the health care coverage of the child. Subtitle I: Enhancing Responsibility and Opportunity for Non- Residential Parents - Amends part D of SSA title IV to prescribe guidelines under which the Administration for Children and Families shall make grants to enable States to establish and administer access and visitation programs to facilitate non-custodial parents' access to their children. Subtitle J: Effective Dates and Conforming Amendments - Sets forth effective dates and conforming amendments. Title IV: Restricting Welfare and Public Benefits for Aliens - Subtitle A: Eligibility for Federal Benefits - Prohibits (with exceptions) specified Federal benefits to nonqualified aliens. Limits (with exceptions) qualified alien access to other specified Federal programs. Requires the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to provide the Immigration and Naturalization Service with information on illegal aliens. Subtitle B: Eligibility for State and Local Public Benefits Programs - Sets forth similar prohibitions and limitations on alien access to State and local public benefits. Subtitle C: Attribution of Income and Affidavits of Support - Attributes a sponsor's (and spouse) income and resources to the alien sponsoree in determining eligibility for Federal means-tested public benefits. (Sec. 422) Authorizes States to make similar attributions. (Sec. 423) Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to set forth sponsor affidavit of support requirements. (Sec. 424) Amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to require sponsor cosignature of alien student loans. Subtitle D: General Provisions - Directs the Attorney General to promulgate regulations for verification of Federal public benefits eligibility. (Sec. 435) Makes the determination of an alien's qualifying quarters under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act dependant upon whether or not a parent or spouse received Federal means-tested assistance during such quarters. Subtitle E: Conforming Amendments Related to Assisted Housing - Makes conforming amendments to the Housing and Community Development Act of 1980. Subtitle F: Earned Income Credit Denied to Unauthorized Employees - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to require a taxpayer to provide his or her social security number in order to qualify for the individual earned income credit. Title V: Reductions In Federal Government Positions - Outlines the mechanism for various specified Federal executive agency workforce reductions, requiring submission to specified congressional committees of certain determinations about the number of full-time equivalent (FTE) positions of their respective departments by the Secretaries of Agriculture, of Education, of Labor, of Housing and Urban Development, and of HHS. Requires the Secretaries to make FTE reductions, including reductions-in-force, resulting from such determinations over the ensuing 14 months. Requires the Comptroller General to analyze and report to such committees on such determinations, with recommendations for further FTE reductions, if appropriate. (Sec. 502) Requires the HHS Secretary to reduce the Federal workforce within HHS: (1) by 75 percent of the FTE positions relating to any direct spending program, or any program funded through discretionary spending, that has been converted into a block grant program by this Act; and (2) 75 percent of a proportionate number of the total FTE departmental management positions. Requires reduction of FTE positions in HHS by: (1) 245 FTE positions related to the program converted by this Act into TEA block grants; and (2) 60 FTE managerial positions. (Sec. 503) Encourages the HHS Secretary to reduce personnel in the Washington, D.C., area office (agency headquarters) before reducing field personnel. Title VI: Reform of Public Housing - Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to prohibit (with an exception) increased housing assistance under such Act due to reduced family income resulting from noncompliance reductions in welfare or other public assistance benefits. (Sec. 602) Prohibits an increase in federally appropriated means-tested welfare or public assistance due to reduced income resulting from fraud-caused reductions under another means-tested welfare or public assistance program. Title VII: Child Protection Block Grant Programs and Foster Care, Adoption Assistance and Independent Living Programs - Subtitle A: Child Protection Block Grant Program and Foster Care, Adoption Assistance, and Independent Living Programs - Replaces title IV-B (Child Welfare Services) with a block grant program to the States to implement: (1) child protection programs regarding child abuse and neglect; and (2) child protection. (Sec. 701) Prescribes guidelines under which the Secretary of Health and Human Services (the Secretary) shall: (1) establish a national data collection and analysis program to coordinate existing State child abuse and neglect reports; and (2) implement a data collection system regarding adoption and foster care. Appropriates funds for child welfare studies and for assessment of State courts improvement of foster care and adoption proceedings. (Sec. 711) Makes conforming amendments to title IV-E (Foster Care and Adoption Assistance). Delineates requirements for State eligibility for Federal payments for foster care maintenance and adoption assistance. Sets forth guidelines for payments and allotments to the States for adoption assistance, foster care, and independent living programs (designed to assist children who have attained age 16 to make the transition from foster care to independent living). (Sec. 731) Instructs the Secretary to submit a legislative proposal to certain congressional committees providing for technical and conforming amendments in the law, pursuant to this Act. (Sec. 732) Expresses the sense of the Congress that States should: (1) allocate sufficient funds for adoption and medical assistance to encourage child adoption; (2) offer incentives to make adoption of special needs children more affordable for middle-class families; (3) provide a child that must be removed from its biological parents with a single foster care placement and single coordinated case team, including conclusion of adoption within one year of such child's foster care placement; and (4) participate in programs to enable maximum visibility of waiting children to potential parents. Subtitle B: Child and Family Services Block Grant - Renames the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act as the Child and Family Services Block Grant Act of 1996. Changes the purposes of the Act to emphasize assistance to each State in improving child protective service systems. Delineates criteria governing State eligibility for Federal block grants for: (1) child and family services; and (2) research, demonstrations, training, and technical assistance. (Sec. 751) Abolishes the current Federal program, including the Advisory Board on Child Abuse and Neglect, the Inter-Agency Task Force on Child Abuse and Neglect, the National Center on Child Abuse and Neglect, community-based family resource programs, temporary child care for children with disabilities, crisis nursery demonstration programs, certain preventive services for children of homeless families or families at risk of homelessness, and requirements for criminal background checks for child care providers. Instructs the Secretary to: (1) establish a national child abuse and neglect data collection and analysis program (in addition to the current national clearinghouse for information relating to child abuse); (2) provide technical and training assistance to the States for child abuse and neglect programs and for adoption opportunities. Mandates peer review for such grants. Instructs the Secretary to conduct a national random sample study of children at risk of child abuse or neglect. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1996 through 2002, including grants for demonstration projects. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to States to assist them in developing programs related to the investigation and prosecution of child abuse and neglect cases. Requires any State requesting such assistance to establish a multidisciplinary task force on children's justice to study administrative, civil, and criminal judicial handling of such cases, and make recommendations which the State must adopt (or equivalent alternatives). Title VIII: Child Care - Child Care and Development Block Grant Amendments of 1996 - Revises and extends through FY 2002 the authorization of appropriations for the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 1990 (the Act, for purposes of this title). Sets forth goals for State child care assistance. (Sec. 803) Amends part A (AFDC) of title IV of the Social Security Act to entitle each State to payments for providing child care assistance. (Sec. 804) Authorizes the State lead agency to administer the financial assistance it receives through other governmental or nongovernmental agencies. (Sec. 805) Revises State application and plan requirements with respect to consumer education information, State licensing compliance, meeting the needs of AFDC or TEA recipients (especially those attempting through work activities to leave the assistance program) and those at risk of becoming dependent on assistance, and assistance for certain low-income working families. (Sec. 807) Reduces from 20 percent to three percent the minimum amount of certain funds available for State activities to improve the quality of child care, limited to: (1) comprehensive consumer education to parents and the public; (2) activities increasing parental choice; and (3) activities designed to improve child care quality and availability. (Sec. 808) Repeals a requirement that States expend a specified minimum amount of reserved funds for early childhood development and before- and after-school services. (Sec. 813) Reduces the allotment reserved for Indian tribes or tribal organizations from three percent to one percent. Prescribes guidelines for the use of such allotment for facility repair and construction. (Sec. 815) Repeals: (1) the Child Development Associate Scholarship Assistance Act of 1985; (2) the State Dependent Care Development Grants Act; (3) specified programs under title X (Programs of National Significance) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 and (4) the Native Hawaiian Family-based Education Centers program under the Native Hawaiian Education Act. Title IX: Child Nutrition Programs - Subtitle A: National School Lunch Act - Amends the National School Lunch Act (NSLA) to repeal specified authorities and requirements for the school lunch and related programs, including: (1) State educational authority to use resources from the nutrition and education (NET) program; (2) prohibition of State imposition of teaching personnel and curriculum requirements at any school; (3) certain demonstration grants to private nonprofit organizations or educational institutions for elementary school curriculum food and nutrition projects; (4) aspects of summer food service programs, reducing payment rates and daily meals at camps, reducing the National Youth Sports Program, and revising nutritional standards compliance requirements; (5) certain commodity distribution program requirements, including State Advisory Councils; (6) expansion of the child care food program; (7) adult care food aid to adult day care centers and services for persons over 60; (8) certain pilot projects, including one for paperwork reduction; and (9) an information clearinghouse. (Sec. 901) Includes in the definition of child any individual with one or more mental or physical disabilities, regardless of age, who attends a specified type of institution, or any nonresidential public or nonprofit private school of high school grade or under, in order to participate in a school program for such individuals. (Sec. 902) Revises nutritional requirements. (Sec. 905) Prohibits, in general, any waiver that will increase Federal costs. Subtitle B: Child Nutrition Act of 1966 - Amends the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 (CNA) to revise the school breakfast program: (1) eliminating Federal assistance for food preparation training and program expansion and start-up costs; (2) repealing certain authorities and requirements relating to State administrative expenses (SAE); (3) repealing the prohibition against State imposition of teaching personnel and curriculum requirements at any school; (4) repealing the program of cash grants for nutrition education. Revises the special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, and children (WIC), among other things repealing specified requirements and changing from mandatory to optional: (1) drug abuse education; and (2) provision of WIC information in languages other than English. (Sec. 931) Makes revisions to the nutrition education and training program. Authorizes appropriations. Title X: Food Stamps and Commodity Distribution - Food Stamp Reform and Commodity Distribution Act of 1996 - Subtitle A: Food Stamp Program - Amends the Food Stamp Act of 1977 (Act) to establish a maximum 24-month food stamp program (program) authorization period for households whose adult members are elderly or disabled. (Sec. 1012) Expands the definition of "coupon." (Sec. 1013) Treats children who are themselves parents living with their children and married children living with their spouses as part of an existing household rather than as a separate household. (Sec. 1014) Authorizes States to establish additional criteria for separate household determinations. (Sec. 1015) Revises thrifty food plan adjustment requirements. (Sec. 1016) Revises the definition of "homeless individual" to limit the length of time a person may temporarily live in another person's residence. (Sec. 1018) Revises household income exclusion provisions regarding: (1) students; and (2) Federal energy assistance. (Sec. 1020) Revises household income deduction provisions regarding: (1) standard deductions; (2) earned income; (3) dependent care; (4) child support payments; (5) homeless shelter assistance; (6) excess medical expenses; and (7) excess shelter expenses. (Sec. 1021) Eliminates specified excludable auto value increases and establishes the maximum excludable auto value at $4600. (Sec. 1022) Includes as household income third party payments for transitional housing for the homeless. (Sec. 1023) Increases penalties for certain program violations. (Sec. 1024) Disqualifies permanently an individual convicted of specified coupon violations. (Sec. 1025) Revises work requirement and employment and training provisions. Extends employment and training funding authorizations. (Sec. 1028) Authorizes comparable program disqualification based upon welfare or public assistance disqualification. (Sec. 1029) Disqualifies permanently an individual who participates in the program in two or more States. (Sec. 1030) Disqualifies a fleeing felon from program participation. (Sec. 1031) Requires at State option: (1) cooperation with child support agencies in order to maintain program eligibility; and (2) program disqualification for child support arrears. (Sec. 1033) Defines "work program." Makes nonexempt persons ineligible for program benefits if during the preceding 12-month period they received food stamps for four months or more without working at least 20 hours per week, or participating in a workfare program. Sets forth exempted persons and situations. (Sec. 1034) Directs States to implement electronic benefit transfer systems. (Sec. 1035) Eliminates annual minimum allotment adjustments. (Sec. 1037) Authorizes a combined allotment for expedited households. (Sec. 1038) Authorizes program reductions for failure to comply with a public assistance reduction requirement. (Sec. 1039) Authorizes program assistance for households residing in a homeless shelter or drug or alcohol treatment center. (Sec. 1040) Provides that no food store or wholesale food concern be approved for program participation without a prior visit by a Department of Agriculture employee, or whenever possible, a designated State or local official. (Sec. 1041) Directs the Secretary of Agriculture (Secretary) to establish authorization periods for retail food stores and wholesale food concerns to redeem food stamps or benefits through an electronic benefit transfer system. (Sec. 1042) Includes income and sales tax information among the types of eligibility verification information that may be requested. (Sec. 1043) Establishes a six-month reapplication waiting period for a store that does not meet participation requirements. (Sec. 1044) Revises: (1) food stamp office operating provisions; and (2) expedited coupon service requirements. (Sec. 1045) Eliminates certain certification personnel training requirements. (Sec. 1046) Provides for the exchange of information with law enforcement or Immigration and Naturalization Service personnel. (Sec. 1048) Authorizes a family to withdraw a fair hearing request. (Sec. 1049) Permits States to use income, and immigration eligibility verification systems other than the system used in part A (General Provisions) of title XI (General Provisions and Peer Review) of the Social Security Act. (Sec. 1050) Provides for disqualification of a store: (1) that knowingly submits a falsified application; and (2) that is disqualified from the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). (Sec. 1052) Directs program overissuances to be collected by: (1) allotment reduction; (2) unemployment compensation withholding; or (3) Federal pay or Federal income tax refund recovery. (Sec. 1053) Authorizes suspension of a store pending administrative and judicial review. (States that the Secretary shall not be liable for lost sales during such period.) (Sec. 1054) Establishes criminal forfeiture penalties for specified program violations. (Sec. 1055) Terminates Federal matching requirements for program recruitment activities. (Sec. 1057) Authorizes States to use funds otherwise available to a participating household for a work supplementation or support program. Sets forth program provisions. (Sec. 1058) Authorizes waiver of program requirements as necessary to conduct related pilot projects. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 1061) Authorizes States to carry out private sector employment initiatives. Sets forth program provisions. (Sec. 1062) Authorizes appropriations for program operations. (Sec. 1063) Authorizes States to carry out a Simplified Food Stamp Program in lieu of existing program requirements. Sets forth program provisions. (Sec. 1064) Establishes an optional State food assistance block grant program in lieu of the food stamp program. Sets forth program provisions. Subtitle B: Commodity Distribution Programs - Amends the Emergency Food Assistance Act of 1983 to combine the emergency food assistance program with the soup kitchen-food bank program. Amends the Act to direct the Secretary to purchase commodities for such combined programs. (Sec. 1072) Amends the Charitable Assistance and Food Bank Act of 1987 to repeal the food bank demonstration project. (Sec. 1073) Makes conforming amendments to the Hunger Prevention Act of 1988. Title XI: Miscellaneous - Requires any funds received by a State under the TEA program, the optional State food assistance block grant program under the Food Stamp Act of 1977, or the child care block grant program under the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 1990, to be expended only in accordance with the laws and procedures applicable to expenditures of the State's own revenues, including appropriation by the State legislature, consistent with the terms and conditions required under such provisions of law. (Sec. 1102) Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to eliminate housing assistance with respect to fugitive felons and probation and parole violators, and provide for the exchange of certain housing information with law enforcement agencies upon request for specified official purposes. (Sec. 1103) Expresses the sense of the Senate that the Congress should adopt enterprise zone legislation in the 104th Congress, and that such legislation provide various specified incentives and provisions, such as Federal tax incentives that expand access to capital, increase the formation and expansion of small businesses, and promote commercial revitalization. (Sec. 1104) Expresses the sense of the Senate that: (1) States should diligently continue their efforts to enforce child support payments by the non-custodial parent to the custodial parent, regardless of the employment status or location of the non-custodial parent; and (2) States are encouraged to pursue pilot programs in which the parents of a non-adult, non-custodial parent who refuses to or is unable to pay child support must pay or contribute to the child support owed by the non-custodial parent or otherwise fulfill all financial obligations and meet all conditions imposed on the non-custodial parent, such as participation in a work program or other related activity. (Sec. 1105) Amends the Food Stamp Act of 1977 to modify the eligibility disqualifications for aliens to give State agencies the option of considering either all income and financial resources of the individual rendered ineligible to participate in the food stamp program, or such income, less a pro rata share, and the financial resources of the ineligible individual, to determine the eligibility and the value of the allotment of the household of which such individual is a member. (Sec. 1106) Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to establish and implement a certain strategy for: (1) preventing out-of-wedlock teenage pregnancies; and (2) assuring that at least 25 percent of the communities in the United States have teenage pregnancy prevention programs in place. (Sec. 1107) Expresses the sense of the Senate that States and local jurisdictions should aggressively enforce statutory rape laws. (Sec. 1108) Provides that States shall not be prohibited by the Federal Government from sanctioning welfare recipients who test positive for the use of controlled substances. (Sec. 1109) Amends SSA title V (Maternal and Child Health Services) to provide for an increase in funding under such title and authorize the provision of abstinence education, along with a separate funding set-aside for it. (Sec. 1110) Amends the Electronic Fund Transfer Act to make certain amendments in order to encourage electronic benefit transfer systems for the distribution of needs-tested benefits by a government agency. (Sec. 1111) Amends SSA title XX (Block Grants to States for Social Services) to provide for a reduction in block grants to States for social services. Division B: Restructuring Medicaid - Medicaid Restructuring Act of 1996 - Amends SSA to add a new title XV (Program of Medical Assistance for Low-Income Individuals and Families), the stated purpose of which is to provide funds to States to enable them to provide medical assistance to low-income individuals and families in a more effective, efficient, and responsive manner. (Sec. 2003) Outlines program components, including key provisions for: (1) certain guaranteed benefits for select individuals, including certain poor pregnant women, disabled and poor elderly individuals, and children receiving foster care or adoption assistance; (2) guaranteed coverage of Medicare premiums and cost-sharing for certain Medicare beneficiaries; (3) only nominal cost-sharing for children and pregnant women with regard to primary and preventive care services; (4) prevention of spousal and family impoverishment with regard to long-term care; (5) State flexibility in benefits, provider payments, geographical coverage area, and selection of providers; (6) coverage of abortions only for pregnancies resulting from rape or incest or when a woman suffers from a physical disorder, illness, or injury that would, as certified by a physician, place the woman in danger of death unless an abortion is performed; (7) denial of payment under the State Medicaid plan for any item or service furnished for euthanasia purposes; (8) limitation on payments for Medicaid services to nonlawful aliens, generally allowing treatment only in emergency situations; (9) periodic, independent evaluations and audits under the program; (10) a separate fraud prevention program, as well as, under certain conditions, State fraud control units; (11) an information reporting system with regard to actions taken by State licensing authorities against health care practitioners and providers; (12) quality assurance requirements for nursing facilities, as well as requirements relating to residents' rights; and (13) an optional master drug rebate agreement program for covered outpatient drugs of a manufacturer. (Sec. 2004) Terminates the current Medicaid program as of October 1, 1997. Sets a limitation on Medicaid payments in FY 1997. (Sec. 2005) Directs the HHS Secretary to waive such requirements of SSA titles XV and XVIII as may be necessary for States to conduct certain demonstration projects to use funds to develop and implement innovative programs for individuals dually eligible for benefits under both titles, including such individuals who are chronically ill.
Bill· SS. 1777 (104th)open
United States · United States Congress · 17 May 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title XXXI(sic): Department of Energy National Security Programs Subtitle A: National Security Programs Authorizations Subtitle B: Recurring General Provisions Subtitle C: Program Authorizations, Restrictions, and Limitations Subtitle D: Other Matters Title XXXII: Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board Department of Energy National Security Act for Fiscal Year 1997 - Title XXXI(sic): Department of Energy National Security Programs - Subtitle A: National Security Programs Authorizations - Authorizes appropriations to the Department of Energy (DOE) for FY 1997 for operating expenses, plant projects, and capital equipment necessary in carrying out the following activities for national security programs: (1) weapons activities; (2) environmental restoration and waste management; (3) other defense activities; and (4) nuclear waste disposal. Subtitle B: Recurring General Provisions - Prohibits the use of funds appropriated pursuant to this title for: (1) the cost of a program exceeding 110 percent of the program authorization or $1 million more than the amount authorized, whichever is the lesser; or (2) programs which have not been presented to, or requested of, the Congress, unless the Secretary of Energy (Secretary) transmits to the appropriate congressional committees a full statement of the action proposed and 30 days have since expired. (Sec. 3122) Places certain funding limits (requiring congressional reports when amounts exceed such limits) for general plant and construction projects of DOE. Provides fund transfer authority (requiring congressional notification of any such transfer). (Sec. 3125) Directs the Secretary, before submitting a funding request for a construction project in support of a DOE national security program, to complete a conceptual design for such project. Requires a separate funding request for such designs for which the estimated costs exceed $3 million. Authorizes the Secretary to carry out construction design services in connection with any proposed construction project if the total estimated cost for the design does not exceed $600,000. Requires specific authorization by law for designs that exceed such amount. (Sec. 3126) Authorizes the use of DOE funds for planning, design, and construction activities for any DOE national security program that must proceed expeditiously in order to protect public health and safety, meet the needs of national defense, or protect property. Requires the Secretary to report to the defense and appropriations committees when funds are so used. (Sec. 3127) Makes funds for management and support activities and for general plant projects under this Subtitle available for all DOE national security programs. Subtitle C: Program Authorizations, Restrictions, and Limitations - Requires the Secretary to make a final decision during FY 1997 on the technologies to be utilized, and the accelerated schedule to be adopted, for tritium production in order to meet the requirements of a certain Nuclear Weapons Stockpile Memorandum. Requires a report to the Congress. Earmarks funds authorized under this title for such activities. (Sec. 3132) Directs the Secretary to carry out activities to modernize and consolidate the tritium recycling facilities at the Savannah River Site, South Carolina. Provides funding. (Sec. 3133) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1996 to add a specified purpose and capability to the general requirements for the DOE nuclear weapons stockpile program. Requires a plan and report with respect to such program. Provides funding. (Sec. 3134) Prohibits FY 1997 DOE funds from being used for certain research and development or technology transfer purposes unless such activities support the DOE national security mission. Requires an annual report. (Sec. 3135) Directs the Secretary to accelerate the schedule for the isolation of high-level nuclear waste in glass canisters at the Defense Waste Processing Facility at the Savannah River Site if the Secretary determines that such acceleration will achieve cost savings and the removal and isolation of such waste from the long-term storage tanks there. (Sec. 3136) Earmarks funds authorized under this title for the processing of high-level nuclear waste and spent nuclear fuel rods. Requires the updating of an implementation plan concerning such waste under a prior defense authorization Act. (Sec. 3137) Earmarks funds for conducting the fellowship program for the development of skills critical to the ongoing mission of the DOE nuclear weapons complex as required under prior law. Requires 21 days' advance notification to the Congress before funds may be obligated or expended for such program. Subtitle D: Other Matters - Directs the Secretary to annually prepare, and submit to the defense and appropriations committees, a five-year budget for DOE national security programs. (Sec. 3152) Sets forth specified requirements for DOE weapons activities budgets for fiscal years after 1997. (Sec. 3153) Repeals a provision of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1995 which requires a report from the President to the defense and appropriations committees on issues associated with purchasing tritium from foreign suppliers. (Sec. 3154) Directs the Secretary to report to the Congress a plan for the near-term processing of spent nuclear fuel rods in two facilities of the Savannah River Site. Requires the Secretary to develop and implement a multiyear plan for the cleanup of nuclear waste at the Site. (Sec. 3155) Requires reports concerning: (1) nuclear test readiness postures; and (2) critical difficulties encountered at nuclear weapons laboratories and production plants. (Sec. 3157) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1995 to extend through December 31, 1997, a requirement concerning notification to the Congress and a subsequent waiting period before undertaking a proposed defense cooperation agreement. (Sec. 3158) Redesignates the Defense Environmental Restoration and Waste Management Program as the Defense Nuclear Waste Management Program. Redesignates the Assistant Secretary in charge of such Program as the Assistant Secretary of Energy for Defense Nuclear Waste Management. Redesignates a related Account. Directs the Secretary to report to the defense and appropriations committees on such redesignations. (Sec. 3159) Establishes the Commission on Maintaining United States Nuclear Weapons Expertise to develop and report to the Congress a plan for recruiting and retaining within the DOE nuclear weapons complex the appropriate scientific, engineering, and technical personnel necessary to permit DOE to maintain a safe and reliable nuclear weapons stockpile without engaging in underground testing. Terminates the Commission 30 days after its report. Provides Commission funding. (Sec. 3160) Expresses the sense of the Senate that the President: (1) should consult closely with the Congress concerning U.S. policy and practices for ensuring the safety and reliability of the U.S. nuclear stockpile; and (2) if he determines that a safety or reliability problem cannot be corrected within the stockpile stewardship program, to notify the Congress of such problem, together with a plan for corrective action. Title XXXII: Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board - Authorizes appropriations for FY 1997 for the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board.
Bill· SS. 1772 (104th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 17 May 1996
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to require, if the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission stops making determinations on whether any gas is produced from geopressured brine, Devonian shale, coal seams, or a tight formation, that the Secretary of the Treasury make that determination.
Bill· SS. 1763 (104th)open
United States · United States Congress · 16 May 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title XXXI(sic): Department of Energy National Security Programs Subtitle A: National Security Programs Authorizations Subtitle B: Recurring General Provisions Subtitle C: Program Authorizations, Restrictions, and Limitations Subtitle D: Other Matters Title XXXII: Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board Department of Energy National Security Act for Fiscal Year 1997 - Title XXXI(sic): Department of Energy National Security Programs - Subtitle A: National Security Programs Authorizations - Authorizes appropriations to the Department of Energy (DOE) for FY 1997 for operating expenses, plant projects, and capital equipment necessary in carrying out the following activities for national security programs: (1) weapons activities; (2) environmental restoration and waste management; (3) other defense activities; and (4) nuclear waste disposal. Subtitle B: Recurring General Provisions - Prohibits the use of funds appropriated pursuant to this title for: (1) the cost of a program exceeding 110 percent of the program authorization or $1 million more than the amount authorized, whichever is the lesser; or (2) programs which have not been presented to, or requested of, the Congress, unless the Secretary of Energy transmits to the appropriate congressional committees a full statement of the action proposed and 30 days have since expired. (Sec. 3122) Places certain funding limits (requiring congressional reports when amounts exceed such limits) for general plant and construction projects of DOE. Provides fund transfer authority (requiring congressional notification of any such transfer). (Sec. 3125) Directs the Secretary, before submitting a funding request for a construction project in support of a DOE national security program, to complete a conceptual design for such project. Requires a separate funding request for such designs for which the estimated costs exceed $3 million. Authorizes the Secretary to carry out construction design services in connection with any proposed construction project if the total estimated cost for the design does not exceed $600,000. Requires specific authorization by law for designs that exceed such amount. (Sec. 3126) Authorizes the use of DOE funds for planning, design, and construction activities for any DOE national security program that must proceed expeditiously in order to protect public health and safety, meet the needs of national defense, or protect property. Requires the Secretary to report to the defense and appropriations committees when funds are so used. Makes funds for management and support activities and for general plant projects under this Subtitle available for all DOE national security programs. Subtitle C: Program Authorizations, Restrictions, and Limitations - Requires the Secretary to make a final decision during FY 1997 on the technologies to be utilized, and the accelerated schedule to be adopted, for tritium production in order to meet the requirements of a certain Nuclear Weapons Stockpile Memorandum. Requires a report to the Congress. Earmarks funds authorized under this title for such activities. (Sec. 3132) Directs the Secretary to carry out activities to modernize and consolidate the tritium recycling facilities at the Savannah River Site, South Carolina. Provides funding. (Sec. 3133) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1996 to add a specified purpose and capability to the general requirements for the stockpile program. Requires a plan and report with respect to such program. Provides funding. (Sec. 3134) Prohibits FY 1997 DOE funds from being used for certain research and development or technology transfer purposes unless such activities support the DOE national security mission. Requires an annual report. (Sec. 3135) Directs the Secretary to accelerate the schedule for the isolation of high-level nuclear waste in glass canisters at the Defense Waste Processing Facility at the Savannah River Site if the Secretary determines that such acceleration will achieve cost savings and the removal and isolation of such waste from the long-term storage tanks there. (Sec. 3136) Earmarks funds authorized under this title for the processing of high-level nuclear waste and spent nuclear fuel rods. Requires the updating of an implementation plan concerning such waste under a prior defense authorization Act. (Sec. 3137) Earmarks funds for conducting the fellowship program for the development of skills critical to the ongoing mission of the DOE nuclear weapons complex as required under prior law. Requires 21 days' advance notification to the Congress before funds may be obligated or expended for such program. Subtitle D: Other Matters - Directs the Secretary to annually prepare, and submit to the defense and appropriations committees, a five-year budget for DOE national security programs. (Sec. 3152) Sets forth specified requirements for DOE weapons activities budgets for fiscal years after 1997. (Sec. 3153) Repeals a provision of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1995 which requires a report from the President to the defense and appropriations committees on issues associated with purchasing tritium from foreign suppliers. (Sec. 3154) Directs the Secretary to report to the Congress a plan for the near-term processing of spent nuclear fuel rods in two facilities of the Savannah River Site. Requires the Secretary to develop and implement a multiyear plan for the cleanup of nuclear waste at the Site. (Sec. 3155) Requires reports concerning: (1) nuclear test readiness postures; and (2) critical difficulties encountered at nuclear weapons laboratories and production plants. (Sec. 3157) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1995 to extend through December 31, 1997, a requirement concerning notification to the Congress and a subsequent waiting period before undertaking a proposed defense cooperation agreement. (Sec. 3158) Redesignates the Defense Environmental Restoration and Waste Management Program as the Defense Nuclear Waste Management Program. Redesignates the Assistant Secretary in charge of such Program as the Assistant Secretary of Energy for Defense Nuclear Waste Management. Redesignates a related Account. Directs the Secretary to report to the defense and appropriations committees on such redesignations. (Sec. 3159) Establishes the Commission on Maintaining United States Nuclear Weapons Expertise to develop and report to the Congress a plan for recruiting and retaining within the DOE nuclear weapons complex the appropriate scientific, engineering, and technical personnel necessary to permit DOE to maintain a safe and reliable nuclear weapons stockpile without engaging in underground testing. Terminates the Commission 30 days after its report. Provides Commission funding. (Sec. 3160) Expresses the sense of the Senate that the President: (1) should consult closely with the Congress concerning U.S. policy and practices for ensuring the safety and reliability of the U.S. nuclear stockpile; and (2) if he determines that a safety or reliability problem cannot be corrected within the stockpile stewardship program, to notify the Congress of such problem, together with a plan for corrective action. Title XXXII: Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board - Authorizes appropriations for FY 1997 for the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board.
Bill· SS. 1764 (104th)open
United States · United States Congress · 16 May 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title XXI(sic): Army Title XXII: Navy Title XXIII: Air Force Title XXIV: Defense Agencies Title XXV: North Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment Program Title XXVI: Guard and Reserve Forces Facilities Title XXVII: Expiration and Extension of Authorizations Title XXVIII: General Provisions Subtitle A: Military Construction Program and Military Family Housing Changes Subtitle B: Defense Base Closure and Realignment Subtitle C: Land Conveyances Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1997 - Title XXI(sic): Army - Authorizes the Secretary of the Army to acquire real property and carry out military construction projects in specified amounts at specified installations and locations. Authorizes the Secretary to construct or acquire family housing units, to carry out architectural planning and design activities, and to improve existing military family housing in specified amounts. Authorizes appropriations to the Army for fiscal years after 1996 for military construction, land acquisition, and military family housing functions of the Army. Limits the total cost of construction projects authorized by this title. Title XXII: Navy - Provides, with respect to the Navy, authorizations paralleling those provided for the Army under the previous title. (Sec. 2204) Authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to make advances to the Secretary of Transportation for the construction of defense access roads. Title XXIII: Air Force - Provides, with respect to the Air Force, authorizations paralleling those provided for the Army. Title XXIV: Defense Agencies - Authorizes the Secretary of Defense (Secretary) to acquire real property and carry out military construction projects in specified amounts at specified installations and locations. Authorizes the Secretary to carry out architectural planning and design activities and to improve existing military family housing units, in specified amounts. (Sec. 2404) Earmarks funds authorized under this title for the Department of Defense Family Housing Improvement Fund and the Department of Defense Military Unaccompanied Housing Improvement Fund, for appropriate uses. (Sec. 2405) Authorizes the Secretary to carry out certain energy conservation projects. (Sec. 2406) Authorizes appropriations to the Department of Defense (DOD) for fiscal years after 1996 for military construction, land acquisition, and military family housing functions of DOD. Limits the total cost of construction projects authorized by this title. Title XXV: North Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment Program - Authorizes the Secretary to make contributions for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Security Investment Program and authorizes appropriations for fiscal years after 1996 for such contributions. (Sec. 2503) Redesignates the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Infrastructure Program as the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment Program. Title XXVI: Guard and Reserve Forces Facilities - Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years after 1996 for the Guard and Reserve forces for acquisition, architectural and engineering services, and construction of facilities. Title XXVII: Expiration and Extension of Authorizations - Terminates all authorizations contained in titles XXI through XXVI of this Act on October 1, 1999, or the date of enactment of an Act authorizing funds for military construction for FY 2000, whichever is later, with exceptions. Extends certain prior-year military construction projects. Title XXVIII: General Provisions - Subtitle A: Military Construction Program and Military Family Housing Changes - Increases threshold amounts for unspecified minor military construction projects. (Sec. 2802) Authorizes day-to-day maintenance and repair of military family housing. Includes under authorized military family housing activities the building of drives into such facilities. (Sec. 2803) Authorizes the Secretary concerned to grant easements for rights-of-way for electric poles and lines and for communications lines and facilities. Subtitle B: Defense Base Closure and Realignment - Amends the Defense Authorization Amendments and Base Closure and Realignment Act to authorize the Secretary to transfer real property or facilities at military installations closed or realigned under a base closure law to a military department or other entity within DOD or the Coast Guard. (Sec. 2812) Amends the above Act and the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Act of 1990 (together, the base closure laws) to: (1) provide for the deposit of proceeds from the disposal of commissary stores and nonappropriated fund instrumentalities at installations closed or realigned under a base closure law; (2) authorize the Secretary to use such amounts for the acquisition, construction, or improvement of such stores and instrumentalities; and (3) authorize the Secretary to enter into agreements for services at such installations after their closure or realignment. Subtitle C: Land Conveyances - Directs the Secretaries of the Interior and the Army to undertake a specified land exchange within the Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia. (Sec. 2822) Directs the Secretary of the Navy to transfer to the United States Institute for Peace administrative jurisdiction over the Potomac Annex in Washington, D.C. (Sec. 2823) Authorizes the Secretary of the: (1) Army to convey to Montpelier, Vermont, the Army Reserve Center in Montpelier; (2) Navy to convey to Delaware the former Naval Reserve Facility in Lewes, Delaware; (3) Air Force to convey to the Belle Fourche School District, South Dakota, the Air Force radar bomb scoring site in Belle Fourche; (4) Air Force to convey to an appropriate entity the primate research complex at Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico; and (6) Air Force to carry out a demonstration project for the installation and operation by private entities of an electric power distribution system at the Youngstown Air Reserve Station in Youngstown, Ohio.
Bill· SS. 1762 (104th)open
United States · United States Congress · 16 May 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Procurement Subtitle A: Authorization of Appropriations Subtitle B: Army Programs Subtitle C: Navy Programs Subtitle D: Air Force Programs Title II: Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation Subtitle A: Authorization of Appropriations Subtitle B: Program Requirements, Restrictions, and Limitations Subtitle C: Ballistic Missile Defense Subtitle D: Other Matters Subtitle E: National Oceanographic Partnership Title III: Operation and Maintenance Subtitle A: Authorization of Appropriations Subtitle B: Program Requirements, Restrictions, and Limitations Subtitle C: Depot-Level Activities Subtitle D: Environmental Provisions Subtitle E: Other Matters Title IV: Military Personnel Authorizations Subtitle A: Active Forces Subtitle B: Reserve Forces Subtitle C: Authorization of Appropriations Title V: Military Personnel Policy Subtitle A: Officer Personnel Policy Subtitle B: Matters Relating to Reserve Components Subtitle C: Officer Education Programs Subtitle D: Other Matters Subtitle E: Commissioned Corps of the Public Health Service Subtitle F: Defense Economic Adjustment, Diversification, Conversion, and Stabilization Subtitle G: Armed Forces Retirement Home Title VI: Compensation and Other Personnel Benefits Subtitle A: Pay and Allowances Subtitle B: Bonuses and Special and Incentive Pays Subtitle C: Travel and Transportation Allowances Subtitle D: Retired Pay, Survivor Benefits, and Related Matters Subtitle E: Other Matters Title VII: Health Care Provisions Title VIII: Acquisition Policy, Acquisition Management, and Related Matters Title IX: Department of Defense Organization and Management Subtitle A: General Matters Subtitle B: National Imagery and Mapping Agency Title X: General Provisions Subtitle A: Financial Matters Subtitle B: Naval Vessels and Shipyards Subtitle C: Counter-Drug Activities Subtitle D: Matters Relating to Foreign Countries Subtitle E: Miscellaneous Reporting Requirements Subtitle F: Other Matters Title XI: Department of Defense Civilian Personnel Subtitle A: Personnel Management, Pay, and Allowances Subtitle B: Defense Economic Adjustment, Diversification, Conversion, and Stabilization Title XII: Federal Charter for the Fleet Reserve Association Department of Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1997 - Title I: Procurement - Subtitle A: Authorization of Appropriations - Authorizes appropriations for FY 1997 for procurement to the armed forces for aircraft, missiles, weapons and tracked combat vehicles, ammunition, shipbuilding and conversion, and for other procurement. (Sec. 104) Authorizes appropriations for FY 1997 for: (1) defense-wide procurement; (2) reserve procurements; (3) the Defense Inspector General; (4) the chemical demilitarization program; and (5) the Defense Health Program. (Sec. 109) Earmarks funds authorized under this title for the Defense Nuclear Agency. Subtitle B: Army Programs - Authorizes the Secretary of the Army to enter into multiyear procurement contracts for the Javelin missile system. (Sec. 112) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1993 to replace the Assistant Secretary of the Army (Installations, Logistics, and Environment) with the Assistant Secretary of the Army (Research, Development and Acquisition) on State chemical demilitarization citizens' advisory commissions. Subtitle C: Navy Programs - Requires certain certifications by the Secretary of the Navy before funds may be obligated for the EA-6B aircraft reactive jammer program. (Sec. 122) Authorizes the Secretary of the Navy, with a cost limitation, to enter into multiyear procurement contracts for up to 106 Penguin missiles. (Sec. 123) Earmarks funds authorized under this Act for one remaining Seawolf attack submarine and a New Attack submarine, under specified contract and construction requirements and limitations. (Sec. 124) Makes funds available for construction of a third Arleigh Burke class destroyer under authority provided in a prior defense authorization Act, with funding limitations. Authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to construct 12 such destroyers in accordance with specified contracting and construction requirements during FY 1998 through 2001 (allowing three destroyers to be constructed in each fiscal year). Subtitle D: Air Force Programs - Authorizes the Secretary of the Air Force to enter into one or more multiyear procurement contracts for the C-17 aircraft program. Title II: Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation - Subtitle A: Authorization of Appropriations - Authorizes appropriations for FY 1997 for the armed forces for research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E). Earmarks funds so authorized for: (1) basic research and exploratory development; and (2) the Defense Nuclear Agency. Subtitle B: Program Requirements, Restrictions, and Limitations - Earmarks funds, with limitations, for the space launch modernization program. (Sec. 212) Authorizes the Secretary of Defense (Secretary) to include the kinetic energy tactical antisatellite program of the Department of Defense (DOD) as an element of the space control architecture being developed by the DOD Space Architect. Provides funding limitations with respect to such program. (Sec. 213) Makes funds available for the Space-Based Infrared System program for specified purposes. Provides for the conditional transfer of management oversight of the program. (Sec. 214) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1996 to repeal a provision earmarking funds for advanced submarine technology activities. (Sec. 215) Earmarks funds, with limitations, for the Clementine 2 micro-satellite near-Earth asteroid interception mission. (Sec. 216) Prohibits any DOD official from contracting for the procurement of a higher number of Dark Star unmanned aerial vehicles than necessary to complete procurement of a total of three of such vehicles until flight testing has been completed. (Sec. 217) Directs the Secretary to report to the Congress comparing the Predator and Dark Star unmanned aerial vehicle programs. (Sec. 218) Requires a program review and report to the congressional defense and appropriations committees with respect to the F-22 aircraft. Directs the Secretary to report annually to the Congress on event-based decision making for such program for that fiscal year. (Sec. 220) Earmarks funds for joint service RDT&E of nonlethal weapons and technologies, with specified elements and limitations. (Sec. 221) Earmarks funds for the Counterproliferation Support Program, further earmarking some of such funds for a tactical antisatellite technologies program. Provides authority to transfer additional funds for such programs, with limitations. (Sec. 222) Allows funds authorized to DOD for FY 1997 to be obligated to procure work from a federally funded research and development center or a university-affiliated research center only if the Secretary names such center in a report to the defense committees and only in an amount not in excess of the proposed funding level for such center. Provides funding limits, authorizing the Secretary to waive such limits after notification to the defense committees. Subtitle C: Ballistic Missile Defense - Provides that, unless a missile defense system, upgrade, or component is ABM-qualifying flight tested, it has not been tested in an ABM mode and therefore is not subject to any application, limitation, or obligation under the ABM Treaty. (Sec. 232) Prohibits FY 1997 DOD funds from being used to implement any agreement or understanding, with respect to the ABM Treaty between the United States and the former Soviet Union, concerning limitations on the performance, operations, or deployment of U.S. theater missile defense systems. (Sec. 233) Prohibits the United States during FY 1997 from being bound by any international agreement that would convert the ABM Treaty to a multilateral treaty. (Sec. 234) Earmarks funds for specified upper tier theater missile defense systems, with a certification limitation. (Sec. 235) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Years 1990 and 1991 to eliminate the requirement that certain items be included in an annual report concerning the ballistic missile defense program. Subtitle D: Other Matters - Authorizes alternative testing in lieu of live-fire survivability testing for the F-22 and V-22 aircraft. Provides funding for such programs. Subtitle E: National Oceanographic Partnership - National Oceanographic Partnership Act - Directs the Secretary of the Navy to establish the National Oceanographic Partnership Program to promote national security, advance economic development, protect the quality of life, and strengthen science education and communication through increased knowledge of the ocean. Establishes a National Ocean Research Council to report annually to the Congress on activities and achievements under the Program. Directs the Council to establish an Ocean Research Partnership Coordinating Group and an Ocean Research Advisory Panel to perform appropriate responsibilities as assigned by the Council. Directs the Council to select the Partnership projects eligible for support under the Program. Provides funding. Title III: Operation and Maintenance - Subtitle A: Authorization of Appropriations - Authorizes appropriations for FY 1997 for operation and maintenance (O&M) for the armed forces and specified activities and agencies of DOD. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1997 to DOD for working capital and revolving funds. Earmarks funds so authorized for the Defense Nuclear Agency. (Sec. 304) Authorizes up to $150 million to be transferred from the National Defense Stockpile Transaction Fund for DOD O&M for FY 1997, to be evenly divided between the Army, Navy, and Air Force. (Sec. 305) Earmarks funds for: (1) the Civil Air Patrol; (2) search and rescue costs; and (3) the SR-71 contingency reconnaissance force. Subtitle B: Program Requirements, Restrictions, and Limitations - Authorizes funds from the National Defense Sealift Fund to be used for the purchase and conversion, or construction, of up to three ships to enhance Marine Corps prepositioning ship squadrons. Eliminates the requirement that vessels constructed using Fund amounts be built in the United States. Allows up to ten (currently, five) vessels to be purchased from foreign shipyards. (Sec. 313) Earmarks funds for the procurement of nonlethal weapons capabilities. (Sec. 314) States that no funds are authorized by this Act to be appropriated to DOD for the Coast Guard within budget subfunction 054. Subtitle C: Depot-Level Activities - Directs the Secretary to maintain within DOD currently-required logistics activities and capabilities. Requires core-logistics functions to be performed in Government-owned and operated facilities of DOD by DOD personnel using DOD equipment. (Sec. 322) Increases from 40 to 50 the percentage of all DOD depot-level maintenance and repair workloads that may be contracted out for performance by non-Federal personnel. Maintains such level at 40 percent until submission to the defense committees of a strategic plan for the performance of such maintenance and repair (such plan being required later under this Subtitle). Revises a current reporting requirement with respect to such workloads. Defines "depot- level maintenance and repair workload" for purposes of such contracting limitations. (Sec. 325) Directs the Secretary to report to the defense committees a strategic plan for the performance of depot-level maintenance and repair for DOD for fiscal years 1998 through 2007. Requires the Comptroller General to review such strategic plan and report review results to such committees. (Sec. 326) Requires an annual report from the Secretary to the defense committees describing the competitive procedures used for contracting for the performance of depot-level maintenance and repair workload activities. (Sec. 327) Directs the Joint Chiefs of Staff to submit annually to the Secretary a report on the privatization of the performance of the various DOD depot-level maintenance workloads. Requires the Secretary to report in turn to the Congress on such matters. (Sec. 328) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1991 to extend through FY 1997 the authority for naval shipyards and aviation depots to engage in defense-related production and services. (Sec. 329) Limits the expenditure of funds for F-18 aircraft depot maintenance until the Secretary reports to the defense and appropriations committees on aviation depot maintenance. (Sec. 330) Prohibits the Secretary, until taking specified action and reporting to the Congress, from contracting for the performance by a private source of any of the depot maintenance currently performed at the Sacramento or San Antonio Air Logistics Centers. Subtitle D: Environmental Provisions - Establishes in DOD a separate Environmental Restoration Account for each of the Army, Navy, and Air Force. (Currently, there is only a Defense Environmental Restoration Account, which continues.) Requires sums appropriated for environmental restoration in each military department to be deposited into such accounts. (Sec. 342) Requires the top 20 defense contractors (currently, 100) in terms of dollar volume to be included in an annual report from the Secretary to the Congress on payments made to defense contractors for the costs of environmental response actions. (Sec. 343) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Years 1992 and 1993 to repeal certain redundant notification and certification requirements regarding remedial investigations and feasibility studies at certain installations to be closed under the base closure laws. (Sec. 344) Authorizes the Secretary to pay to the Hazardous Substance Superfund stipulated civil penalties assessed against various military facilities and installations under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (CERCLA). (Sec. 345) Amends CERCLA to authorize the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to withhold the listing of a Federal facility on a national environmental cleanup priorities list if the head of such facility has arranged with the Administrator to respond appropriately to a release or threatened release of a hazardous substance. Authorizes the Administrator or the governor of a State to transfer contaminated Federal property before the completion of required remedial actions under CERCLA if the Administrator or governor determines that the property is suitable for transfer and there are assurances that all remaining remedial actions will be taken after such transfer. (Sec. 348) Amends the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships to allow military vessels to dispose in the ocean certain non-plastic, non-floating garbage if the Secretary of the Navy determines that such ship cannot fully comply with the non-dumping requirements of such Act due to technological infeasibility or impairment of the ship's operations or operational capability. Requires each ship which the Navy plans to decommission between January 1, 2001, and December 31, 2005, to comply to the greatest extent practicable with the ocean dumping limitations of the Act. Expresses the sense of the Congress that it should be an objective of the Navy to fully comply with such dumping requirements and to develop ships that are environmentally sound. (Sec. 349) Authorizes the Secretary and the Secretaries of the military departments to enter into cooperative agreements with States, local governments, and appropriate public and private entities to provide for the preservation, management, maintenance, and rehabilitation of cultural resources on military installations. (Sec. 350) Directs the Secretary to submit to the defense and appropriations committees a report that assesses the effects of the proposed withdrawal of public lands at El Centro Naval Air Facility, California, on the operational and training requirements of DOD at that facility. (Sec. 351) Amends the Act commonly known as the Sikes Act to allow hunting and fishing fees collected at closed military installations to be available for expenditure at any other military reservation for the protection, conservation, and management of fish and wildlife located there. Subtitle E: Other Matters - Authorizes the contracting out for fire fighting and security guard functions at a private facility at which a Federal activity is located pursuant to a lease of such facility to the Federal Government. (Sec. 362) Authorizes DOD recruitment funds to be expended for small meals and refreshments provided to specified individuals during personnel recruiting functions. (Sec. 363) Prohibits the Secretary from using other-than- competitive procedures for the procurement of brand-name commercial items for resale in commissary stores unless such item is regularly sold outside such stores under the same brand name. (Sec. 364) Authorizes the Superintendent of the Naval Academy to administer a nonappropriated fund account for the midshipmen's store, specified shops, and the laundry and dairy. (Sec. 365) Increases the assistance authorized to be provided by the Secretary to the Inaugural Committee to include planning and assistance with respect to security and ceremonial activities, and any other appropriate assistance. (Currently, only the loan of equipment is authorized.) Includes a congressional joint committee as an authorized recipient of such assistance. (Sec. 366) Allows the Secretary to authorize the commander of a military installation or other DOD facility, or the commander of a specified or unified combatant command, to provide assistance for the World Cup Games, the Goodwill Games, the Olympics, and any other major civilian sporting event in support of essential security and safety at such event, but only under appropriate agreements with event sponsors. Excludes the Special Olympics or Paralympics from such authorized assistance. (Sec. 367) Authorizes the Secretary to transfer DOD funds to the Administrator of General Services for the renovation of Building One at Fort Benjamin Harrison, Indiana, for use as a Defense Finance and Accounting Service Center. Title IV: Military Personnel Authorizations - Subtitle A: Active Forces - Provides the authorized end strengths for active-duty forces as of the end of FY 1997. Increases from 0.5 to five the percentage of authorized temporary variation in such levels. (Sec. 403) Provides the authorized end strengths for commissioned officers in grades O-4 through O-6. (Sec. 404) Extends through FY 2000 the requirement for recommendations to the Secretary for appointments to joint 4-star officer positions. (Sec. 405) Increases from 68 to 80 the authorized number of active-duty general officers in the Marine Corps. Subtitle B: Reserve Forces - Sets forth the authorized end strengths as of the end of FY 1997 for members of the Selected Reserve and reserve personnel on active duty in support of the reserves. Subtitle C: Authorization of Appropriations - Authorizes appropriations for FY 1997 for military personnel. Title V: Military Personnel Policy - Subtitle A: Officer Personnel Policy - Extends through FY 1997 the authority for the temporary promotion of Navy lieutenants possessing critical skills. (Sec. 502) Provides an exception to the baccalaureate degree requirement for appointments above the Naval Reserve grade of O-2 in the case of appointments of officers to the Seaman to Admiral Program. (Sec. 503) Increases from three to eight years since graduation from an unaccredited educational institution the time period for such graduates to be considered educationally qualified for appointment as reserve officers in grade O-3. (Sec. 504) Reduces from three to two years the minimum time in grade before chief warrant officers on the active-duty list may be considered for promotion. Authorizes the selection of chief warrant officers from below their promotion zone. (Sec. 505) Reduces from semiannually to annually the required frequency of a periodic report on promotion rates of officers currently or formerly serving in joint duty assignments. Subtitle B: Matters Relating to Reserve Components - Amends the Reserve Officer Personnel Management Act to allow a person who has completed at least six months of satisfactory service as an adjutant or assistant adjutant before completion of three years of such service to be retired in the higher grade of such position, notwithstanding that he or she had not completed three years of such service. Provides grade recognition, for retirement credit purposes, for other persons promoted to higher positions who did not serve in such positions, but instead served in other positions for which the promoted grade is the minimum authorized grade for the position in which the person actually served. (Sec. 513) Repeals the requirement for physical examinations of members of the National Guard called into Federal service. (Sec. 514) Authorizes reserve personnel within two years of retirement eligibility to waive the prohibition against the involuntary release of such members within such period. (Sec. 515) Provides for the retirement of reserve personnel disabled by injury or disease incurred or aggravated while remaining overnight between inactive duty training periods. (Sec. 516) Provides reserve duty credit for participation in the Health Professions Scholarship and Financial Assistance Program if the person completes the course of study, completes the active duty obligation, and possesses a specialty designated as one critically needed in wartime. (Sec. 517) Directs the Secretary to report to the Congress on the current and projected force structure of the National Guard and other reserve components. Subtitle C: Officer Education Programs - Increases the maximum age limit before appointment to: (1) the Senior Reserve Officers' Training Corps, to less than 27 years of age; and (2) a military service academy, to less than 23 years of age. (Sec. 522) Directs the Secretary of the Army to carry out, and report to the Congress in each of 1998 through 2001 on, a demonstration project assessing the feasibility and advisability of providing instruction and other support to units of the Army Reserve Officers Training Corps through members of the Army Reserve and Army National Guard. Terminates such authority four years after enactment of this Act. Subtitle D: Other Matters - Allows no more than 25 (currently, 15) formerly retired general or flag officers of an armed force to be serving on active duty concurrently pursuant to orders issued by the Secretary of such military department. Provides exceptions and limits to the periods of recalled service. (Sec. 533) Provides disability coverage for officers granted excess leave in order to participate in an educational program. Entitles such members to eligibility for: (1) placement on the temporary disability retirement list; and (2) separation from the armed forces. (Sec. 534) Directs the Secretary to prescribe regulations setting forth uniform policies and procedures regarding the retention of military personnel who are permanently nonworldwide assignable for medical reasons. (Sec. 535) Authorizes the Secretary concerned to extend the normal one-year authorized waiting period before entry under the delayed entry program for an additional 180 days if such Secretary determines the additional period to be in the best interests of that armed force. (Sec. 536) Authorizes the Secretary concerned to accept a reenlistment for: (1) a member who has less than ten years of service, for at least two but not more than six additional years; and (2) a member with at least ten years of service, for the above period or for an unspecified period. (Sec. 537) Repeals the applicability of military missing person provisions to DOD civilian and contractor employees who accompany an armed force into action. Increases from 48 hours to ten days after a unit commander concludes that a person should be in a missing status the time period permitted prior to a required preliminary report to the Secretary concerned on such person's status. Repeals the requirement that counsel represent a missing person during inquiries as to their status. Requires subsequent reviews concerning a person's declared status to be made upon receipt of information that may result in a change of such status (Currently, such reviews are required every three years.) Repeals: (1) statutory penalties for the wrongful withholding of information as to a person's status; (2) the right of judicial review of a missing or dead status determination; and (3) the inclusion of certain information upon a determination of death of a missing person. (Sec. 538) States that the three-year statute of limitations for filing claims for the correction of military records is not extended by reason of military service, but provides an exception in the interests of justice. (Sec. 539) Authorizes the President, notwithstanding specified time limitations, to award the Medal of Honor to certain named individuals for acts of heroism while serving in the U.S. Army during World War II. Subtitle E: Commissioned Corps of the Public Health Service - Applies to an officer in the Commissioned Corps of the Public Health Service (PHS) a current prohibition on crediting enlisted service performed as a cadet or midshipman as service as an officer in the armed forces. (Sec. 562) Amends the Public Health Service Act to except from PHS commissioned officer end strength limitations those officers who are assigned to duty in DOD. Subtitle F: Defense Economic Adjustment, Diversification, Conversion, and Stabilization - Makes permanent the current conditional authority to expand the DOD law enforcement personnel placement assistance program to include fire fighters. (Sec. 572) Requires (currently, authorizes) the Secretary, and the Secretary of Transportation with respect to the Coast Guard, to establish a program providing assistance to separated military personnel to obtain certification and employment as teachers or teachers' aides. Reduces from five to two school years the period in which such former member must agree to be employed in such a position after receiving such assistance and certification. Reduces the amount required to be paid by the Secretary concerned to the local educational agency as part of the salary of such teachers or teachers' aides. Subtitle G: Armed Forces Retirement Home - Amends the Armed Forces Retirement Home Act of 1991 to authorize the Chairman of the Retirement Home Board or the director of each individual establishment of the Armed Forces Retirement Home to accept voluntary services from any person, unless such services are disapproved by the Board. Provides voluntary service requirements and limitations, as well as the Federal employee status of such persons while performing such services. Allows such Chairman or director to reimburse such volunteers for incidental expenses incurred in providing such services. (Sec. 583) Authorizes the Retirement Home Board to sell or otherwise dispose of specified property under their control in Washington, D.C., under specified terms and conditions, including required notification to the defense committees of any such disposals. (Sec. 584) Provides for the terms of appointment for members of Retirement Home governing boards. Authorizes the Board to waive certain dual compensation prohibitions with respect to the director of an individual retirement home or one of its employees, allowing for the adjustment of such pay in consideration of the dual compensation. (Sec. 585) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1995 to delay until the end of FY 1998 the implementation of a new fee structure for residents of the military retirement homes (delays similarly the end date of a series of three reports with respect to such fee implementation). Directs the Secretary to report to the Congress on meeting the funding needs of the Armed Forces Retirement Home in a manner that is fair and equitable to its residents as well as to members of the armed forces who provide required monthly contributions for the Home. (Sec. 586) Authorizes appropriations for FY 1997 from the Armed Forces Retirement Home Trust Fund for the operation of the Home. Title VI: Compensation and Other Personnel Benefits - Subtitle A: Pay and Allowances - Waives any FY 1997 military pay increases tied to increases in the General Schedule of Compensation for Government employees. Increases by 3.0 percent, effective on January 1, 1997, the rates of basic pay and basic allowance for subsistence. Increases by 4.0 percent, on the same date, the rate of basic allowance for quarters (BAQ). (Sec. 602) Repeals the requirement that the rate of monthly cadet and midshipman pay be adjusted in the same manner and time as the rates of monthly basic pay to military personnel. (Sec. 603) Authorizes senior noncommissioned officers who are hospitalized to continue to be entitled to their authorized basic pay for up to 180 days after commencement of such hospitalization. (Sec. 604) Authorizes a BAQ for certain members (single or married personnel of specified grades) assigned to sea duty. (Sec. 606) Authorizes a family separation allowance for a member who is separated from a spouse who is also a member of the armed forces if the member has no dependents and the two members were residing together immediately before such separation. (Sec. 607) Authorizes the Comptroller General to waive certain time limitations with respect to claims for military pay or allowances of $25,000 or less. Subtitle B: Bonuses and Special and Incentive Pays - Extends through FY 1998 specified authorities currently scheduled to expire at the end of FY 1997 with respect to certain special pay and bonus programs within the regular and reserve armed forces. (Sec. 614) Increases the special pay for dental officers of the armed forces. (Sec. 615) Repeals the requirement limiting special pay for optometrists to optometrists in the armed forces (thereby qualifying PHS optometrists for such pay). (Sec. 616) Authorizes special pay as nonphysician health care providers for officers in the Regular or Reserve Corps of the PHS. (Sec. 617) Authorizes the payment of foreign language proficiency pay for officers of the PHS and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. (Currently, such pay is limited to officers in the armed forces.) Subtitle C: Travel and Transportation Allowances - Authorizes the payment of a travel expense for travel from a new duty station to the port of debarkation to pick up a privately owned vehicle. (Sec. 622) Allows a member authorized to have a vehicle shipped to a foreign country due to a change of duty station to store such vehicle at Government expense in lieu of such shipping when the government of such foreign country precludes the entry of such vehicle or requires extensive vehicle modification before such entry is permitted. (Sec. 623) Authorizes a member to defer travel leave permitted between consecutive tours of duty for up to one additional year due to participation in a contingency operation. (Sec. 624) Provides funding for the transportation of household effects of members of the Commissioned Corps of the PHS. Subtitle D: Retired Pay, Survivor Benefits, and Related Matters - Repeals a provision providing a conditional effective date for the FY 1998 military retirement pay cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs). (Sec. 632) Authorizes a member or former member, subject to specified conditions and restrictions, to transfer or assign such member's retired or retainer pay account when it becomes due and payable for the payment of any financial obligations. (Sec. 633) States that Survivor Benefit Plan COLAs shall become effective concurrently with the payment of related military retirement pay COLAs. (Sec. 634) Directs the Secretary concerned to pay an annuity to the qualified surviving spouse of each member of the armed forces who: (1) died before March 21, 1974, and was entitled to retired or retainer pay on such date; or (2) was a member of the reserves between September 21, 1972, and October 1, 1978, and at the time of death would have been entitled to retired pay but for the fact of being under 60 years of age. (Sec. 635) Increases the annual income limitation for purposes of eligibility for supplemental income for certain spouses of former military personnel. Subtitle E: Other Matters - Authorizes military personnel and members of the Coast Guard to be reimbursed for adoption expenses incurred through any adoption source (private source) if the adoption is supervised by a court under a State or local law. (Sec. 642) Authorizes the withholding for Federal income tax purposes of amounts from the separation pay received by involuntarily separated military personnel. Title VII: Health Care Provisions - Revises the implementation deadline with respect to the requirement for a Selected Reserve dental insurance plan. (Sec. 702) Provides a dental insurance plan for: (1) members and former members entitled to retired or retainer pay; (2) members of the Retired Reserve who would be eligible for such pay except for not having attained 60 years of age; and (3) eligible dependents of (1) and (2), above. Outlines provisions concerning premiums, benefits, and coverage. Provides for the continuation during the enrollment period of benefits to dependents upon the death of an enrollee. (Sec. 703) Directs the Secretary to take necessary action to provide a uniform software package for use by providers of health care under the TRICARE program (a DOD managed health care program) and by military treatment facilities for the computerized processing of information. (Sec. 704) Revises certain DOD authority with respect to the receipt of payments or reimbursement from third party health insurance providers for care provided to military personnel and their dependents at military treatment facilities under the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Uniformed Services (CHAMPUS). (Sec. 706) Provides for the crediting of amounts collected in the administration of CHAMPUS. (Sec. 707) Directs the Comptroller General to analyze the effectiveness of the medical research and clinical care programs of DOD that relate to Persian Gulf illnesses, including the use of experimental drugs, and to report study results to the Congress. Title VIII: Acquisition Policy, Acquisition Management, and Related Matters - Earmarks funds authorized under this Act for DOD procurement technical assistance programs. (Sec. 802) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year: (1) 1991 to extend through FY 1998 the Mentor-Protege pilot program; and (2) 1994 to modify and extend through FY 2001 the authority of DOD to carry out prototype projects directly relevant to proposed weapons or weapon systems. (Sec. 804) Repeals specified provisions relating to program requirements and administration of a national defense program for analysis of the defense technology and industrial base (base). Directs the Secretary to annually prepare selected assessments of the capability of such base to attain required national security objectives. Repeals the requirement of a periodic defense capability plan under such base. Directs the Secretary to prescribe departmental guidance for the attainment of specified national security objectives in connection with such base. Requires annual reports to the defense committees. Repeals superseded and inconsistent Federal provisions. (Sec. 805) Authorizes the Secretary to require that the procurement of small arms parts and modifications be made only from firms listed in a specified plan prepared by an independent assessment panel of the Army Science Board. (Sec. 807) Treats a DOD cable television franchise agreement as a contract for telecommunications services under the Federal Acquisition Regulation. (Sec. 808) Provides reinstatement and other remedies for employees against whom certain reprisal actions are taken for providing information as to possible violations of law (whistle blowers). (Sec. 809) Directs the Secretary to include in a currently-required report specified matters relating to information resources management by the Federal Government. Directs the Secretary to ensure that all information technology acquired by DOD pursuant to contracts entered into after September 30, 1996, have certain capabilities relating to the fault-free processing of dates and date-related data. Requires a report to the Congress. Title IX: Department of Defense Organization and Management - Subtitle A: General Matters - Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1996 to repeal provisions requiring a reorganization of the Office of the Secretary of Defense. (Sec. 902) Codifies requirements provided under prior law with respect to: (1) the continued operation of the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, as well as the required end strengths for University personnel; and (2) the requirements for a United States Army Reserve Command and the assignment of forces under such Command. (Sec. 904) Authorizes the President, through the Secretary of Defense (currently, the Secretary of the Army), to assume control over transportation systems in times of war. (Sec. 905) Directs the Secretary to perform oversight responsibilities within the executive branch with respect to clandestine activities of DOD human intelligence personnel. (Sec. 906) Designates the Director of the Defense Intelligence Agency as the Director of Military Intelligence. Establishes within DOD a Military Intelligence Board as the principal forum for coordination of DOD intelligence programs and activities. (Sec. 907) Redesignates the: (1) Office of Naval Records and History Fund as the Naval Historical Center Fund; and (2) Office of Naval Records and History as the Naval Historical Center. Subtitle B: National Imagery and Mapping Agency - National Imagery and Mapping Agency Act of 1996 - Part I: Establishment - Establishes the National Imagery and Mapping Agency as a combat support agency of DOD, with a Director appointed by the President. Requires the Agency to: (1) provide timely, relevant, and accurate imagery, imagery intelligence, and geospatial information in support of U.S. national security objectives; (2) improve the means of navigating vessels of the Navy and merchant marine; (3) prepare and distribute maps, charts, and related products; and (4) support the imagery requirements of the Department of State and other Federal departments and agencies outside of DOD. Authorizes the Agency Director to use appropriated funds to provide foreign countries with imagery intelligence and geospatial information support. Requires support of Agency activities by the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), including administrative and contract services as well as the detail of appropriate personnel. Prohibits the CIA Inspector General from conducting any inspection, investigation, or audit of the Agency without the written consent of the DOD Inspector General. Provides for the protection of Agency identifications (acronyms) and organizational information. Empowers the Secretary with civilian personnel management authority over Agency employees, including the authority to hire personnel, fix the rates of pay and authorized allowances and COLAs, and terminate employees. Authorizes the Secretary to designate National Imagery and Mapping Senior Level positions. Authorizes the Secretary to establish a National Imagery and Mapping Senior Executive Service for senior civilian personnel within the Agency, under specified requirements. Provides related authorities, including details and assignments outside the Agency as well as labor and management bargaining rights and obligations. Requires congressional oversight of the Agency as a combat support agency. Transfers specified missions and functions within DOD (the Defense Mapping Agency and the Central Imagery Office) and the CIA (the National Photographic Interpretation Center) to the Agency, including related personnel and other assets. (Sec. 923) Amends the National Security Act of 1947 to direct the Secretary to perform various imagery functions through the Agency in furtherance of national security. Provides other personnel management authorities. (Sec. 925) Provides creditable civilian service for current Defense Mapping Agency employees who continue their service with the new Agency. Provides savings provisions. (Sec. 928) Authorizes appropriations for the Agency for FY 1997. Part II: Conforming Amendments and Effective Dates - Makes technical and conforming amendments necessitated by the creation of the Agency and the termination of the Defense Mapping Agency and the Central Imagery Office. Provides an effective date. Title X: General Provisions - Subtitle A: Financial Matters - Authorizes the Secretary, in the national interest, to transfer amounts of authorizations made available to DOD in this Division for FY 1997 between any such authorizations for that fiscal year, with a total transfer limit of $2 billion. Requires notification to the Congress of any such transfers. (Sec. 1002) Authorizes certain unauthorized FY 1996 defense appropriations to be obligated for DOD programs, projects, and activities in accordance with FY 1996 defense appropriations. (Sec. 1003) Adjusts the amounts authorized to DOD for FY 1996 by the amount by which appropriations pursuant to such authorization were increased or decreased in the Omnibus Consolidated Rescissions and Appropriations Act of 1996. (Sec. 1004) Allows FY 1997 DOD funds transferred to the Coast Guard to be used only for the performance of national security functions of the Coast Guard in support of DOD, requiring a certification of the proper use of such funds. (Sec. 1005) Authorizes the use of DOD funds for the military education and training of military and civilian personnel of foreign countries (under the military-to-military contacts program). (Sec. 1006) Authorizes the payment of certain personnel, equipment, services, and supplies expenses related to the provision by DOD of humanitarian and civic assistance. (Sec. 1007) Prohibits DOD funds appropriated for intelligence activities from being obligated or expended by an individual who is not an officer or employee of DOD. (Sec. 1008) Prohibits funds authorized under this Act or otherwise made available to the Navy for FY 1997 from being obligated or expended by the Office of Naval Intelligence for official representation or related activities. (Sec. 1009) Expresses the sense of the Congress that, whenever the President directs the Secretary to provide disaster assistance outside the United States, the President should direct the Administrator of the Agency for International Development to reimburse DOD for such costs. (Sec. 1010) Provides a Fisher House Trust Fund for the Navy, funds from which shall be used for the operation of Fisher houses (houses located near a military medical treatment facility and used for the temporary lodging of patients of such facility and their immediate family). (Sec. 1011) Provides for the designation and liability of Coast Guard disbursing and certifying officials. Places authority over such officials with the Department of Transportation when the Coast Guard is not operating as a service in the Navy. (Sec. 1012) Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to suspend an action by the Secretary to collect a claim against a deceased member of the Coast Guard when considered appropriate. (Sec. 1013) Authorizes a Federal disbursing official to undertake check cashing and other exchange transactions at a Federal credit union that is operating at DOD invitation in a foreign country where contractor-operated military banking facilities are not available. Subtitle B: Naval Vessels and Shipyards - Authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to transfer to the governments of Egypt, Mexico, New Zealand, Portugal, Taiwan, and Thailand specified naval vessels. Directs such Secretary to require that any required repair or refurbishment of such vessels take place at a U.S. shipyard, including a Navy shipyard. Terminates the transfer authority two years after enactment of this Act. (Sec. 1022) Authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to transfer six obsolete Navy tugboats to the Northeast Wisconsin Railroad Transportation Commission. (Sec. 1023) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1996 to repeal the requirement of the continuous applicability of phased maintenance contracts for AE-class ships. (Sec. 1024) Reaffirms the sense of the Congress that the Secretary of the Navy should plan for and budget the acquisition of 19 large, medium-speed, roll-on, roll-off vessels rather than only 17 such vessels (as in the current contract). Subtitle C: Counter-Drug Activities - Authorizes the Secretary to provide additional counter-drug support to the Government of Mexico during FY 1997. Provides funding. (Sec. 1032) Prohibits DOD funds from this or any other Act from being obligated or expended for the National Drug Intelligence Center, Johnstown, Pennsylvania, with an exception. Requires a joint investigation of the operations of such Center by various inspectors general and a report to the Congress on the results of such investigation. Subtitle D: Matters Relating to Foreign Countries - Authorizes the Secretary to enter into agreements with the governments of U.S. allies and other friendly foreign countries for the exchange of military and civilian personnel of DOD with similar personnel of such foreign governments. (Sec. 1042) Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to provide for the reciprocal exchange of personnel between the United States and foreign countries for attendance at flight training schools or programs. (Sec. 1043) Amends the Weapons of Mass Destruction Control Act of 1992 to extend through FY 1998 the authority to support international nonproliferation activities. Subtitle E: Miscellaneous Reporting Requirements - Requires an annual report from the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) to the defense committees on emerging operational concepts. (Sec. 1052) Requires the Secretary to report to the defense committees on a joint war fighting science and technology plan. (Sec. 1053) Directs the JCS Chairman to report to the defense and appropriations committees on the military readiness requirements of the armed forces. Requires such report to be prepared by the Chief of Staff (Commandant, for the Marines) of each armed force. Subtitle F: Other Matters - Amends the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) to except from the competitive service appointments to certain nonattorney positions on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces. (Sec. 1062) Prohibits DOD funds from being obligated or expended during FY 1997 for retiring or dismantling B-52H bomber aircraft, Trident ballistic missile submarines, Minuteman II ICBMs, or Peacekeeper ICBMs. Authorizes a waiver of such prohibition when determined necessary to implement the START II Treaty. (Sec. 1063) Corrects legal and statutory references with respect to the North American Aerospace Defense Command and the Defense Distribution Depot, Anniston, Alabama. (Sec. 1064) Authorizes certain members of the reserves to act as a notary public or U.S. consul. (Sec. 1065) Authorizes military personnel to use non-Government facilities for training activities. (Sec. 1066) Provides that if a member of the armed forces is injured or contracts a disease under circumstances creating a tort liability upon a third person, and such member is unable to perform his or her duties as a result of such injury or disease, then the United States shall have a right of recovery against such third person for the value of pay that accrues to such member for the period in which they are incapacitated. (Sec. 1067) Prohibits DOD funds from being used to adopt or enforce any rule or other prohibition that discriminates against the display of the flag of a particular State, territory, or possession of the United States at an official ceremony at any installation or other facility of DOD at which the official flags of other U.S. States, territories, or possessions are being displayed. (Sec. 1068) Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) accept gifts and donations from foreign governments and other individuals or entities within foreign countries in order to defray the costs of operation of the George C. Marshall European Center for Strategic Security Studies; (2) permit representatives of a foreign government to participate in a program at the Center when found to be in the U.S. national interest; and (3) waive certain financial disclosure requirements for a foreign member of the Board of Visitors of the Center serving without compensation. (Sec. 1069) Authorizes the Speaker of the House and President pro tempore of the Senate to jointly present a bronze medal (previously awarded only to military personnel) to certain civilian participants in the defense of Pearl Harbor. Authorizes appropriations. Makes such authority effective as of November 5, 1990. (Sec. 1070) Redesignates the Nellis Federal Hospital in Las Vegas, Nevada, as the Michael O'Callaghan Federal Hospital. (Sec. 1071) Expresses the sense of the Senate that the Secretary should name Building A at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences as the David Packard Building. Title XI: Department of Defense Civilian Personnel - Subtitle A: Personnel Management, Pay, and Allowances - Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1996 to direct the Secretary, by the end of FY 1996, to convert 3,000 military positions to civilian positions. (Sec. 1102) Authorizes the Secretary to retain civilian employee positions of DOD at a military installation which is to be closed and which is scheduled for transfer during FY 1997 to National Guard operation and control, in order to facilitate active and reserve component training at such installation. Limits the maximum number of positions retained to 20 percent of the Federal civilian work force employed at such installation as of September 8, 1995. (Sec. 1104) Authorizes the Secretary to provide DOD civilian employees (and their family members) abroad with benefits comparable to those provided by the Secretary of State to members of the Foreign Service serving abroad. (Sec. 1105) Authorizes an employee of a nonappropriated fund instrumentality of DOD or the Coast Guard who moves, without a break in service of more than three days, to a position in DOD or the Coast Guard to receive travel, transportation, and related expenses under the same conditions and to the same extent as regular DOD or Coast Guard employees. (Sec. 1106) Amends the Defense Department Overseas Pay and Personnel Practices Act to require the Secretary of the military department concerned (currently, the Secretary of Defense) to conduct the employment and salary practices applicable to teachers employed overseas in that department. (Sec. 1107) Authorizes the Secretary to employ appropriate teaching faculty at the English Language Center of the Defense Language Institute and the Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies. (Sec. 1108) Authorizes the Secretary to provide reimbursement to DOD domestic dependent school board members for expenses incurred in the performance of school board duties. (Sec. 1109) Extends through FY 2001 the authority for civilian DOD employees to participate in voluntary DOD reductions-in-force. (Sec. 1110) Authorizes an agency head to grant employee compensatory time off in lieu of overtime pay for time spent in irregular or overtime work. (Sec. 1111) Provides for the lump-sum payment of annual leave to a DOD employee for leave that remains unused upon the employee's transfer from an installation being closed or realigned under a base closure law. (Sec. 1112) Waives the requirement for the repayment of voluntary separation incentive pay by former DOD employees who are reemployed when such employment is without pay. (Sec. 1113) Provides Federal holiday observance procedures for DOD employees when a holiday occurs on that employee's regularly scheduled day off. (Sec. 1114) Repeals Federal provisions: (1) requiring a specified percentage of hotels in which Federal employees are booked to meet fire safety and control requirements of the Federal Fire Prevention and Control Act of 1974; and (2) prohibiting the payment of lodging expenses of DOD employees when adequate Government facilities are available. Subtitle B: Defense Economic Adjustment, Diversification, Conversion, and Stabilization - Authorizes the Secretary to establish a pilot program under which Federal retirement benefits are provided to persons who convert from Federal employment in the Navy or Air Force to employment with a DOD contractor in connection with the privatization of the performance of functions at selected military installations being closed under the base closure and realignment process. Outlines provisions concerning: (1) eligible transferred employees; (2) applicable retirement benefits; (3) computation of average pay; (4) the payment by the military department concerned of the unfunded liability in the Civil Service Retirement and Disability Fund caused by the addition of such benefits; (5) the termination 90 days after such transfer of Federal health benefits coverage; (6) a study and report from the Comptroller General to the Congress on each pilot program established under this section; and (7) required implementing regulations by the Director of the Office of Personnel Management. (Sec. 1122) Directs (currently authorizes) the Secretary to establish a program providing assistance to terminated DOD employees and DOD contractor employees in obtaining certification and employment in the private sector as teachers and teachers' aides (known as the troops-to-teachers program). Reduces from five to two school years the period of obligated service after such assistance and certification. Title XII: Federal Charter for the Fleet Reserve Association - Recognizes and grants a Federal charter to the Fleet Reserve Association, a nonprofit organization formed to aid and maintain an adequate naval defense for the United States and assist in the recruitment and welfare of personnel in the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. Requires the Association to report annually to the Congress on its activities.
Bill· SS. 1745 (104th)open
United States · United States Congress · 13 May 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Procurement Subtitle A: Authorization of Appropriations Subtitle B: Army Programs Subtitle C: Navy Programs Subtitle D: Air Force Programs Title II: Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation Subtitle A: Authorization of Appropriations Subtitle B: Program Requirements, Restrictions, and Limitations Subtitle C: Ballistic Missile Defense Subtitle D: Other Matters Subtitle E: National Oceanographic Partnership Title III: Operation and Maintenance Subtitle A: Authorization of Appropriations Subtitle B: Program Requirements, Restrictions, and Limitations Subtitle C: Depot-Level Activities Subtitle D: Environmental Provisions Subtitle E: Other Matters Title IV: Military Personnel Authorizations Subtitle A: Active Forces Subtitle B: Reserve Forces Subtitle C: Authorization of Appropriations Title V: Military Personnel Policy Subtitle A: Officer Personnel Policy Subtitle B: Matters Relating to Reserve Components Subtitle C: Officer Education Programs Subtitle D: Other Matters Subtitle E: Commissioned Corps of the Public Health Service Subtitle F: Defense Economic Adjustment, Diversification, Conversion, and Stabilization Subtitle G: Armed Forces Retirement Home Title VI: Compensation and Other Personnel Benefits Subtitle A: Pay and Allowances Subtitle B: Bonuses and Special and Incentive Pays Subtitle C: Travel and Transportation Allowances Subtitle D: Retired Pay, Survivor Benefits, and Related Matters Subtitle E: Other Matters Title VII: Health Care Provisions Title VIII: Acquisition Policy, Acquisition Management, and Related Matters Title IX: Department of Defense Organization and Management Subtitle A: General Matters Subtitle B: National Imagery and Mapping Agency Title X: General Provisions Subtitle A: Financial Matters Subtitle B: Naval Vessels and Shipyards Subtitle C: Counter-Drug Activities Subtitle D: Matters Relating to Foreign Countries Subtitle E: Miscellaneous Reporting Requirements Subtitle F: Other Matters Title XI: Department of Defense Civilian Personnel Subtitle A: Personnel Management, Pay, and Allowances Subtitle B: Defense Economic Adjustment, Diversification, Conversion, and Stabilization Title XII: Federal Charter for the Fleet Reserve Association Title XXI(sic): Army Title XXII: Navy Title XXIII: Air Force Title XXIV: Defense Agencies Title XXV: North Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment Program Title XXVI: Guard and Reserve Forces Facilities Title XXVII: Expiration and Extension of Authorizations Title XXVIII: General Provisions Subtitle A: Military Construction Program and Military Family Housing Changes Subtitle B: Defense Base Closure and Realignment Subtitle C: Land Conveyances Title XXXI(sic): Department of Energy National Security Programs Subtitle A: National Security Programs Authorizations Subtitle B: Recurring General Provisions Subtitle C: Program Authorizations, Restrictions, and Limitations Subtitle D: Other Matters Title XXXII: Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board Title XXXIII: National Defense Stockpile Title XXXIV: Naval Petroleum Reserves Title XXXV: Panama Canal Commission National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1997 - Division A: Department of Defense Authorizations - Title I: Procurement - Subtitle A: Authorization of Appropriations - Authorizes appropriations for FY 1997 for procurement to the armed forces for aircraft, missiles, weapons and tracked combat vehicles, ammunition, shipbuilding and conversion, and for other procurement. (Sec. 104) Authorizes appropriations for FY 1997 for: (1) defense-wide procurement; (2) reserve procurements; (3) the Defense Inspector General; (4) the chemical demilitarization program; and (5) the Defense Health Program. (Sec. 109) Earmarks funds authorized under this title for the Defense Nuclear Agency. Subtitle B: Army Programs - Authorizes the Secretary of the Army to enter into multiyear procurement contracts for the Javelin missile system. (Sec. 112) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1993 to replace the Assistant Secretary of the Army (Installations, Logistics, and Environment) with the Assistant Secretary of the Army (Research, Development and Acquisition) on State chemical demilitarization citizens' advisory commissions. Subtitle C: Navy Programs - Requires certain certifications by the Secretary of the Navy before funds may be obligated for the EA-6B aircraft reactive jammer program. (Sec. 122) Authorizes the Secretary of the Navy, with a cost limitation, to enter into multiyear procurement contracts for up to 106 Penguin missiles. (Sec. 123) Earmarks funds authorized under this Act for one remaining Seawolf attack submarine and a New Attack submarine, under specified contract and construction requirements and limitations. (Sec. 124) Makes funds available for construction of a third Arleigh Burke class destroyer under authority provided in a prior defense authorization Act, with funding limitations. Authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to construct 12 such destroyers in accordance with specified contracting and construction requirements during FY 1998 through 2001 (allowing three destroyers to be constructed in each fiscal year). Subtitle D: Air Force Programs - Authorizes the Secretary of the Air Force to enter into one or more multiyear procurement contracts for the C-17 aircraft program. Title II: Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation - Subtitle A: Authorization of Appropriations - Authorizes appropriations for FY 1997 for the armed forces for research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E). Earmarks funds so authorized for: (1) basic research and exploratory development; and (2) the Defense Nuclear Agency. Subtitle B: Program Requirements, Restrictions, and Limitations - Earmarks funds, with limitations, for the space launch modernization program. (Sec. 212) Authorizes the Secretary of Defense (Secretary) to include the kinetic energy tactical antisatellite program of the Department of Defense (DOD) as an element of the space control architecture being developed by the DOD Space Architect. Provides funding limitations with respect to such program. (Sec. 213) Makes funds available for the Space-Based Infrared System program for specified purposes. Provides for the conditional transfer of management oversight of the program. (Sec. 214) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1996 to repeal a provision earmarking funds for advanced submarine technology activities. (Sec. 215) Earmarks funds, with limitations, for the Clementine 2 micro-satellite near-Earth asteroid interception mission. (Sec. 216) Prohibits any DOD official from contracting for the procurement of a higher number of Dark Star unmanned aerial vehicles than necessary to complete procurement of a total of three of such vehicles until flight testing has been completed. (Sec. 217) Directs the Secretary to report to the Congress comparing the Predator and Dark Star unmanned aerial vehicle programs. (Sec. 218) Requires a program review and report to the congressional defense and appropriations committees with respect to the F-22 aircraft. Directs the Secretary to report annually to the Congress on event-based decision making for such program for that fiscal year. (Sec. 220) Earmarks funds for joint service RDT&E of nonlethal weapons and technologies, with specified elements and limitations. (Sec. 221) Earmarks funds for the Counterproliferation Support Program, further earmarking some of such funds for a tactical antisatellite technologies program. Provides authority to transfer additional funds for such programs, with limitations. (Sec. 222) Allows funds authorized to DOD for FY 1997 to be obligated to procure work from a federally funded research and development center or a university-affiliated research center only if the Secretary names such center in a report to the defense committees and only in an amount not in excess of the proposed funding level for such center. Provides funding limits, authorizing the Secretary to waive such limits after notification to the defense committees. Subtitle C: Ballistic Missile Defense - Provides that, unless a missile defense system, upgrade, or component is ABM-qualifying flight tested, it has not been tested in an ABM mode and therefore is not subject to any application, limitation, or obligation under the ABM Treaty. (Sec. 232) Prohibits FY 1997 DOD funds from being used to implement any agreement or understanding, with respect to the ABM Treaty between the United States and the former Soviet Union, concerning limitations on the performance, operations, or deployment of U.S. theater missile defense systems. (Sec. 233) Prohibits the United States during FY 1997 from being bound by any international agreement that would convert the ABM Treaty to a multilateral treaty. (Sec. 234) Earmarks funds for specified upper tier theater missile defense systems, with a certification limitation. (Sec. 235) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Years 1990 and 1991 to eliminate the requirement that certain items be included in an annual report concerning the ballistic missile defense program. Subtitle D: Other Matters - Authorizes alternative testing in lieu of live-fire survivability testing for the F-22 and V-22 aircraft. Provides funding for such programs. Subtitle E: National Oceanographic Partnership - National Oceanographic Partnership Act - Directs the Secretary of the Navy to establish the National Oceanographic Partnership Program to promote national security, advance economic development, protect the quality of life, and strengthen science education and communication through increased knowledge of the ocean. Establishes a National Ocean Research Council to report annually to the Congress on activities and achievements under the Program. Directs the Council to establish an Ocean Research Partnership Coordinating Group and an Ocean Research Advisory Panel to perform appropriate responsibilities as assigned by the Council. Directs the Council to select the Partnership projects eligible for support under the Program. Provides funding. Title III: Operation and Maintenance - Subtitle A: Authorization of Appropriations - Authorizes appropriations for FY 1997 for operation and maintenance (O&M) for the armed forces and specified activities and agencies of DOD. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1997 to DOD for working capital and revolving funds. Earmarks funds so authorized for the Defense Nuclear Agency. (Sec. 304) Authorizes up to $150 million to be transferred from the National Defense Stockpile Transaction Fund for DOD O&M for FY 1997, to be evenly divided between the Army, Navy, and Air Force. (Sec. 305) Earmarks funds for: (1) the Civil Air Patrol; (2) search and rescue costs; and (3) the SR-71 contingency reconnaissance force. Subtitle B: Program Requirements, Restrictions, and Limitations - Authorizes funds from the National Defense Sealift Fund to be used for the purchase and conversion, or construction, of up to three ships to enhance Marine Corps prepositioning ship squadrons. Eliminates the requirement that vessels constructed using Fund amounts be built in the United States. Allows up to ten (currently, five) vessels to be purchased from foreign shipyards. (Sec. 313) Earmarks funds for the procurement of nonlethal weapons capabilities. (Sec. 314) States that no funds are authorized by this Act to be appropriated to DOD for the Coast Guard within budget subfunction 054. Subtitle C: Depot-Level Activities - Directs the Secretary to maintain within DOD currently-required logistics activities and capabilities. Requires core-logistics functions to be performed in Government-owned and operated facilities of DOD by DOD personnel using DOD equipment. (Sec. 322) Increases from 40 to 50 the percentage of all DOD depot-level maintenance and repair workloads that may be contracted out for performance by non-Federal personnel. Maintains such level at 40 percent until submission to the defense committees of a strategic plan for the performance of such maintenance and repair (such plan being required later under this Subtitle). Revises a current reporting requirement with respect to such workloads. Defines "depot- level maintenance and repair workload" for purposes of such contracting limitations. (Sec. 325) Directs the Secretary to report to the defense committees a strategic plan for the performance of depot-level maintenance and repair for DOD for fiscal years 1998 through 2007. Requires the Comptroller General to review such strategic plan and report review results to such committees. (Sec. 326) Requires an annual report from the Secretary to the defense committees describing the competitive procedures used for contracting for the performance of depot-level maintenance and repair workload activities. (Sec. 327) Directs the Joint Chiefs of Staff to submit annually to the Secretary a report on the privatization of the performance of the various DOD depot-level maintenance workloads. Requires the Secretary to report in turn to the Congress on such matters. (Sec. 328) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1991 to extend through FY 1997 the authority for naval shipyards and aviation depots to engage in defense-related production and services. (Sec. 329) Limits the expenditure of funds for F-18 aircraft depot maintenance until the Secretary reports to the defense and appropriations committees on aviation depot maintenance. (Sec. 330) Prohibits the Secretary, until taking specified action and reporting to the Congress, from contracting for the performance by a private source of any of the depot maintenance currently performed at the Sacramento or San Antonio Air Logistics Centers. Subtitle D: Environmental Provisions - Establishes in DOD a separate Environmental Restoration Account for each of the Army, Navy, and Air Force. (Currently, there is only a Defense Environmental Account, which continues.) Requires sums appropriated for environmental restoration in each military department to be deposited into such accounts. (Sec. 342) Requires the top 20 defense contractors (currently, 100) in terms of dollar volume to be included in an annual report from the Secretary to the Congress on payments made to defense contractors for the costs of environmental response actions. (Sec. 343) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Years 1992 and 1993 to repeal certain redundant notification and certification requirements regarding remedial investigations and feasibility studies at certain installations to be closed under the base closure laws. (Sec. 344) Authorizes the Secretary to pay to the Hazardous Substance Superfund stipulated civil penalties assessed against various military facilities and installations under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 (CERCLA). (Sec. 345) Amends CERCLA to authorize the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to withhold the listing of a Federal facility on a national environmental cleanup priorities list if the head of such facility has arranged with the Administrator to respond appropriately to a release or threatened release of a hazardous substance. Authorizes the Administrator or the governor of a State to transfer contaminated Federal property before the completion of required remedial actions under CERCLA if the Administrator or governor determines that the property is suitable for transfer and there are assurances that all remaining remedial actions will be taken after such transfer. (Sec. 348) Amends the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships to allow military vessels to dispose in the ocean certain non-plastic, non- floating garbage if the Secretary of the Navy determines that such ship cannot fully comply with the non-dumping requirements of such Act due to technological infeasibility or impairment of the ship's operations or operational capability. Requires each ship which the Navy plans to decommission between January 1, 2001, and December 31, 2005, to comply to the greatest extent practicable with the ocean dumping limitations of the Act. Expresses the sense of the Congress that it should be an objective of the Navy to fully comply with such dumping requirements and to develop ships that are environmentally sound. (Sec. 349) Authorizes the Secretary and the Secretaries of the military departments to enter into cooperative agreements with States, local governments, and appropriate public and private entities to provide for the preservation, management, maintenance, and rehabilitation of cultural resources on military installations. (Sec. 350) Directs the Secretary to submit to the defense and appropriations committees a report that assesses the effects of the proposed withdrawal of public lands at El Centro Naval Air Facility, California, on the operational and training requirements of DOD at that facility. (Sec. 351) Amends the Act commonly known as the Sikes Act to allow hunting and fishing fees collected at closed military installations to be available for expenditure at any other military reservation for the protection, conservation, and management of fish and wildlife located there. Subtitle E: Other Matters - Authorizes the contracting out for fire fighting and security guard functions at a private facility at which a Federal activity is located pursuant to a lease of such facility to the Federal Government. (Sec. 362) Authorizes DOD recruitment funds to be expended for small meals and refreshments provided to specified individuals during personnel recruiting functions. (Sec. 363) Prohibits the Secretary from using other-than- competitive procedures for the procurement of brand-name commercial items for resale in commissary stores unless such item is regularly sold outside such stores under the same brand name. (Sec. 364) Authorizes the Superintendent of the Naval Academy to administer a nonappropriated fund account for the midshipmen's store, specified shops, and the laundry and dairy. (Sec. 365) Increases the assistance authorized to be provided by the Secretary to the Inaugural Committee to include planning and assistance with respect to security and ceremonial activities, and any other appropriate assistance. (Currently, only the loan of equipment is authorized.) Includes a congressional joint committee as an authorized recipient of such assistance. (Sec. 366) Allows the Secretary to authorize the commander of a military installation or other DOD facility, or the commander of a specified or unified combatant command, to provide assistance for the World Cup Games, the Goodwill Games, the Olympics, and any other major civilian sporting event in support of essential security and safety at such event, but only under appropriate agreements with event sponsors. Excludes the Special Olympics or Paralympics from such authorized assistance. (Sec. 367) Authorizes the Secretary to transfer DOD funds to the Administrator of General Services for the renovation of Building One at Fort Benjamin Harrison, Indiana, for use as a Defense Finance and Accounting Service Center. Title IV: Military Personnel Authorizations - Subtitle A: Active Forces - Provides the authorized end strengths for active-duty forces as of the end of FY 1997. Increases from 0.5 to five the percentage of temporary variation in such levels. (Sec. 403) Provides the authorized end strengths for commissioned officers in grades O-4 through O-6. (Sec. 404) Extends through FY 2000 the requirement for recommendations to the Secretary for appointments to joint 4-star officer positions. (Sec. 405) Increases from 68 to 80 the authorized number of active-duty general officers in the Marine Corps. Subtitle B: Reserve Forces - Sets forth the authorized end strengths as of the end of FY 1997 for members of the Selected Reserve and reserve personnel on active duty in support of the reserves. Subtitle C: Authorization of Appropriations - Authorizes appropriations for FY 1997 for military personnel. Title V: Military Personnel Policy - Subtitle A: Officer Personnel Policy - Extends through FY 1997 the authority for the temporary promotion of Navy lieutenants possessing critical skills. (Sec. 502) Provides an exception to the baccalaureate degree requirement for appointments above the Naval Reserve grade of O-2 in the case of appointments of officers to the Seaman to Admiral Program. (Sec. 503) Increases from three to eight years since graduation from an unaccredited educational institution the time period for such graduates to be considered educationally qualified for appointment as reserve officers in grade O-3. (Sec. 504) Reduces from three to two years the minimum time in grade before chief warrant officers on the active-duty list may be considered for promotion. Authorizes the selection of chief warrant officers from below their promotion zone. (Sec. 505) Reduces from semiannually to annually the required frequency of a periodic report on promotion rates of officers currently or formerly serving in joint duty assignments. Subtitle B: Matters Relating to Reserve Components - Amends the Reserve Officer Personnel Management Act to allow a person who has completed at least six months of satisfactory service as an adjutant or assistant adjutant general but was terminated under State law before completion of three years of such service to be retired in the higher grade of such position, notwithstanding that he or she had not completed three years of such service. Provides grade recognition, for retirement credit purposes, for other persons promoted to higher positions who did not serve in such positions, but instead served in other positions for which the promoted grade is the minimum authorized grade for the position in which the person actually served. (Sec. 513) Repeals the requirement for physical examinations of members of the National Guard called into Federal service. (Sec. 514) Authorizes reserve personnel within two years of retirement eligibility to waive the prohibition against the involuntary release of such members within such period. (Sec. 515) Provides for the retirement of reserve personnel disabled by injury or disease incurred or aggravated while remaining overnight between inactive duty training periods. (Sec. 516) Provides reserve duty credit for participation in the Health Professions Scholarship and Financial Assistance Program if the person completes the course of study, completes the active duty obligation, and possesses a specialty designated as one critically needed in wartime. (Sec. 517) Directs the Secretary to report to the Congress on the current and projected force structure of the National Guard and other reserve components. Subtitle C: Officer Education Programs - Increases the maximum age limit before appointment to: (1) the Senior Reserve Officers' Training Corps, to less than 27 years of age; and (2) a military service academy, to less than 23 years of age. (Sec. 522) Directs the Secretary of the Army to carry out, and report to the Congress in each of 1998 through 2001 on, a demonstration project assessing the feasibility and advisability of providing instruction and other support to units of the Army Reserve Officers Training Corps through members of the Army Reserve and Army National Guard. Terminates such authority four years after enactment of this Act. Subtitle D: Other Matters - Allows not more than 25 (currently, 15) formerly retired general or flag officers of an armed force to be serving on active duty concurrently pursuant to orders issued by the Secretary of such military department. Provides exceptions and limits to the periods of recalled service. (Sec. 533) Provides disability coverage for officers granted excess leave in order to participate in an educational program. Entitles such members to eligibility for: (1) placement on the temporary disability retirement list; and (2) separation from the armed forces. (Sec. 534) Directs the Secretary to prescribe regulations setting forth uniform policies and procedures regarding the retention of military personnel who are permanently nonworldwide assignable for medical reasons. (Sec. 535) Authorizes the Secretary concerned to extend the normal one-year authorized waiting period before entry under the delayed entry program for an additional 180 days if such Secretary determines the additional period to be in the best interests of that armed force. (Sec. 536) Authorizes the Secretary concerned to accept a reenlistment for: (1) a member who has less than ten years of service, for at least two but not more than six additional years; and (2) a member with at least ten years of service, for the above period or for an unspecified period. (Sec. 537) Repeals the applicability of military missing person provisions to DOD civilian and contractor employees who accompany an armed force into action. Increases from 48 hours to ten days after a unit commander concludes that a person should be in a missing status the time period permitted prior to a required preliminary report to the Secretary concerned on such person's status. Repeals the requirement that counsel represent a missing persons during inquiries as to their status. Requires subsequent reviews concerning a person's declared status to be made upon receipt of information that may result in a change of such status (Currently, such reviews are required every three years.) Repeals: (1) statutory penalties for the wrongful withholding of information as to a person's status; (2) the right of judicial review of a missing or dead status determination; and (3) the inclusion of certain information upon a determination of death of a missing person. (Sec. 538) States that the three-year statute of limitations for filing claims for the correction of military records is not extended by reason of military service, but provides an exception in the interests of justice. (Sec. 539) Authorizes the President, notwithstanding specified time limitations, to award the Medal of Honor to certain named individuals for acts of heroism while serving in the U.S. Army during World War II. Subtitle E: Commissioned Corps of the Public Health Service - Applies to an officer in the Commissioned Corps of the Public Health Service a current prohibition on crediting enlisted service performed as a cadet or midshipman as service as an officer in the armed forces. (Sec. 562) Amends the Public Health Service Act to except from Public Health Service commissioned officer end strength limitations those officers who are assigned to duty in DOD. Subtitle F: Defense Economic Adjustment, Diversification, Conversion, and Stabilization - Makes permanent the current conditional authority to expand the DOD law enforcement personnel placement assistance program to include fire fighters. (Sec. 572) Requires (currently, authorizes) the Secretary, and the Secretary of Transportation with respect to the Coast Guard, to establish a program providing assistance to separated military personnel to obtain certification and employment as teachers or teachers' aides. Reduces from five to two school years the period in which such former member must agree to be employed in such a position after receiving such assistance. Reduces the amount required to be paid by the Secretary concerned to the local educational agency as part of the salary of such teachers or teachers' aides. Subtitle G: Armed Forces Retirement Home - Amends the Armed Forces Retirement Home Act of 1991 to authorize the Chairman of the Retirement Home Board or the director of each individual establishment of the Armed Forces Retirement Home to accept voluntary services from any person, unless such services are disapproved by the Board. Provides voluntary service requirements and limitations, as well as the Federal employee status of such persons while performing such services. Allows such Chairman or director to reimburse such volunteers for incidental expenses incurred in providing such services. (Sec. 583) Authorizes the Retirement Home Board to sell or otherwise dispose of specified property under their control in Washington, D.C., under specified terms and conditions, including a required notification to the defense committees of any such disposals. (Sec. 584) Provides for the terms of appointment for members of Retirement Home governing boards. Authorizes the Board to waive certain dual compensation prohibitions with respect to the director of an individual retirement home or one of its employees, allowing for the adjustment of such pay in consideration of the dual compensation. (Sec. 585) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1995 to delay until the end of FY 1998 the implementation of a new fee structure for residents of the military retirement homes (delays similarly the end date of a series of three reports with respect to such fee implementation). Directs the Secretary to report to the Congress on meeting the funding needs of the Armed Forces Retirement Home in a manner that is fair and equitable to its residents as well as to members of the armed forces who provide required monthly contributions for the Home. (Sec. 586) Authorizes appropriations for FY 1997 from the Armed Forces Retirement Home Trust Fund for the operation of the Home. Title VI: Compensation and Other Personnel Benefits - Subtitle A: Pay and Allowances - Waives any FY 1997 military pay increases tied to increases in the General Schedule of Compensation for Government employees. Increases by 3.0 percent, effective on January 1, 1997, the rates of basic pay and basic allowance for subsistence. Increases by 4.0 percent, on the same date, the rate of basic allowance for quarters (BAQ). (Sec. 602) Repeals the requirement that the rate of monthly cadet and midshipman pay be adjusted in the same manner and time as the rates of monthly basic pay to military personnel. (Sec. 603) Authorizes senior noncommissioned officers who are hospitalized to continue to be entitled to the basic pay authorized for such members for up to 180 days after commencement of such hospitalization. (Sec. 604) Authorizes a BAQ for certain members (single or married personnel of specified grades) assigned to sea duty. (Sec. 606) Authorizes a family separation allowance for a member who is separated from a spouse who is also a member of the armed forces if the member has no dependents and the two members were residing together immediately before such separation. (Sec. 607) Authorizes the Comptroller General to waive certain time limitations with respect to claims for military pay or allowances of $25,000 or less. Subtitle B: Bonuses and Special and Incentive Pays - Extends through FY 1998 specified authorities currently scheduled to expire at the end of FY 1997 with respect to certain special pay and bonus programs within the regular and reserve armed forces. (Sec. 614) Increases the special pay for dental officers of armed forces. (Sec. 615) Repeals the requirement limiting special pay for optometrists to optometrists in the armed forces (thereby qualifying Public Health Service optometrists for such pay). (Sec. 616) Authorizes special pay as nonphysician health care providers for officers in the Regular or Reserve Corps of the Public Health Service. (Sec. 617) Authorizes the payment of foreign language proficiency pay for officers of the Public Health Service and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. (Currently, such pay is limited to officers in the armed forces.) Subtitle C: Travel and Transportation Allowances - Authorizes the payment of a travel expense for travel from a new duty station to the port of debarkation to pick up a privately owned vehicle. (Sec. 622) Allows a member authorized to have a vehicle shipped to a foreign country due to a change of duty station to store such vehicle at Government expense in lieu of such shipping when the government of such foreign country precludes the entry of such vehicle or requires extensive vehicle modification before such entry is permitted. (Sec. 623) Authorizes a member to defer travel leave permitted between consecutive tours of duty for up to one additional year due to participation in a contingency operation. (Sec. 624) Provides funding for the transportation of household effects of members of the Commissioned Corps of the Public Health Service. Subtitle D: Retired Pay, Survivor Benefits, and Related Matters - Repeals a provision providing a conditional effective date for the FY 1998 military retirement pay cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs). (Sec. 632) Authorizes a member or former member, subject to specified conditions and restrictions, to transfer or assign such member's retired or retainer pay account when it becomes due and payable for the payment of any financial obligations. (Sec. 633) States that Survivor Benefit Plan COLAs shall become effective concurrently with the payment of related military retirement pay COLAs. (Sec. 634) Directs the Secretary concerned to pay an annuity to the qualified surviving spouse of each member of the armed forces who: (1) died before March 21, 1974, and was entitled to retired or retainer pay on such date; or (2) was a member of the reserves between September 21, 1972, and October 1, 1978, and at the time of death would have been entitled to retired pay but for the fact of being under 60 years of age. (Sec. 635) Increases the annual income limitation for purposes of eligibility for supplemental income for certain spouses of former military personnel. Subtitle E: Other Matters - Authorizes military personnel and members of the Coast Guard to be reimbursed for adoption expenses incurred through any adoption source (private source) if the adoption is supervised by a court under a State or local law. (Sec. 642) Authorizes the withholding for Federal income tax purposes of amounts from the separation pay received by involuntarily separated military personnel. Title VII: Health Care Provisions - Revises the implementation deadline with respect to the requirement for a Selected Reserve dental insurance plan. (Sec. 702) Provides a dental insurance plan for: (1) members and former members entitled to retired or retainer pay; (2) members of the Retired Reserve who would be eligible for such pay except for not having attained 60 years of age; and (3) eligible dependents of (1) and (2), above. Outlines provisions concerning premiums, benefits, and coverage. Provides for the continuation during the enrollment period of benefits to dependents upon the death of an enrollee. (Sec. 703) Directs the Secretary to take necessary action to provide a uniform software package for use by providers of health care under the TRICARE program (a DOD managed health care program) and by military treatment facilities for the computerized processing of information. (Sec. 704) Revises certain DOD authority with respect to the receipt of payments or reimbursement from third party health insurance providers for care provided to military personnel and their dependents at military treatment facilities under the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Uniformed Services (CHAMPUS). (Sec. 706) Provides for the crediting of amounts collected in the administration of CHAMPUS. (Sec. 707) Directs the Comptroller General to analyze the effectiveness of the medical research and clinical care programs of DOD that relate to Persian Gulf illnesses, including the use of experimental drugs, and to report study results to the Congress. Title VIII: Acquisition Policy, Acquisition Management, and Related Matters - Earmarks funds authorized under this Act for DOD procurement technical assistance programs. (Sec. 802) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year: (1) 1991 to extend through FY 1998 the Mentor-Protege pilot program; and (2) 1994 to modify and extend through FY 2001 the authority of DOD to carry out prototype projects directly relevant to proposed weapons or weapon systems. (Sec. 804) Repeals specified provisions relating to program requirements and administration of a national defense program for analysis of the defense technology and industrial base (base). Directs the Secretary to annually prepare selected assessments of the capability of such base to attain required national security objectives. Repeals the requirement of a periodic defense capability plan under such base. Directs the Secretary to prescribe departmental guidance for the attainment of specified national security objectives in connection with such base. Requires annual reports to the defense committees. Repeals superseded and inconsistent Federal provisions. (Sec. 805) Authorizes the Secretary to require that the procurement of small arms parts and modifications be made only from firms listed in a specified plan prepared by an independent assessment panel of the Army Science Board. (Sec. 807) Treats a DOD cable television franchise agreement as a contract for telecommunications services under the Federal Acquisition Regulation. (Sec. 808) Provides reinstatement and other remedies for employees against whom certain reprisal actions are taken for providing information as to possible violations of law (whistle blowers). (Sec. 809) Directs the Secretary to include in a currently- required report specified matters relating to information resources management by the Federal Government. Directs the Secretary to ensure that all information technology acquired by DOD pursuant to contracts entered into after September 30, 1996, have certain capabilities relating to the fault-free processing of dates and date-related data. Requires a report to the Congress. Title IX: Department of Defense Organization and Management - Subtitle A: General Matters - Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1996 to repeal provisions requiring a reorganization of the Office of the Secretary of Defense. (Sec. 902) Codifies requirements provided under prior law with respect to: (1) the continued operation of the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, as well as the required end strengths for University personnel; and (2) the requirements for a United States Army Reserve Command and the assignment of forces under such Command. (Sec. 904) Authorizes the President, through the Secretary of Defense (currently, the Secretary of the Army) to assume control over transportation systems in times of war. (Sec. 905) Directs the Secretary to perform oversight responsibilities within the executive branch with respect to clandestine activities of DOD human intelligence personnel. (Sec. 906) Designates the Director of the Defense Intelligence Agency as the Director of Military Intelligence. Establishes within DOD a Military Intelligence Board as the principal forum for coordination of DOD intelligence programs and activities. (Sec. 907) Redesignates the: (1) Office of Naval Records and History Fund as the Naval Historical Center Fund; and (2) Office of Naval Records and History as the Naval Historical Center. Subtitle B: National Imagery and Mapping Agency - National Imagery and Mapping Agency Act of 1996 - Part I: Establishment - Establishes the National Imagery and Mapping Agency as a combat support agency of DOD, with a Director appointed by the President. Requires the Agency to: (1) provide timely, relevant, and accurate imagery, imagery intelligence, and geospatial information in support of U.S. national security objectives; (2) improve the means of navigating vessels of the Navy and merchant marine; (3) prepare and distribute maps, charts, and related products; and (4) support the imagery requirements of the Department of State and other Federal departments and agencies outside of DOD. Authorizes the Agency Director to use appropriated funds to provide foreign countries with imagery intelligence and geospatial information support. Requires support of Agency activities by the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), including administrative and contract services as well as the detail of appropriate personnel. Prohibits the CIA Inspector General from conducting any inspection, investigation, or audit of the Agency without the written consent of the DOD Inspector General. Provides for the protection of Agency identifications (acronyms) and organizational information. Empowers the Secretary with civilian personnel management authority with respect to Agency employees, including the authority to hire personnel, fix the rates of pay and authorized allowances and COLAs, and to terminate employees. Authorizes the Secretary to designate National Imagery and Mapping Senior Level positions. Authorizes the Secretary to establish a National Imagery and Mapping Senior Executive Service for senior civilian personnel within the Agency, under specified requirements. Provides related authorities, including details and assignments outside the Agency as well as labor and management bargaining rights and obligations. Requires congressional oversight of the Agency as a combat support agency. Transfers specified missions and functions within DOD (the Defense Mapping Agency and the Central Imagery Office) and the CIA (the National Photographic Interpretation Center) to the Agency, including related personnel and other assets. (Sec. 923) Amends the National Security Act of 1947 to direct the Secretary to perform various imagery functions through the Agency in furtherance of national security. Provides other personnel management authorities. (Sec. 925) Provides creditable civilian service for current Defense Mapping Agency employees who continue their service with the new Agency. Provides savings provisions. (Sec. 928) Authorizes appropriations for the Agency for FY 1997. Part II: Conforming Amendments and Effective Dates - Makes technical and conforming amendments necessitated by the creation of the Agency and the termination of the Defense Mapping Agency and the Central Imagery Office. Provides an effective date. Title X: General Provisions - Subtitle A: Financial Matters - Authorizes the Secretary, in the national interest, to transfer amounts of authorizations made available to DOD in this Division for FY 1997 between any such authorizations for that fiscal year, with a total transfer limit of $2 billion. Requires notification to the Congress of any such transfers. (Sec. 1002) Authorizes certain unauthorized FY 1996 defense appropriations to be obligated for DOD programs, projects, and activities in accordance with FY 1996 defense appropriations. (Sec. 1003) Adjusts the amounts authorized to DOD for FY 1996 by the amount by which appropriations pursuant to such authorization were increased or decreased in the Omnibus Consolidated Rescissions and Appropriations Act of 1996. (Sec. 1004) Allows FY 1997 DOD funds transferred to the Coast Guard to be used only for the performance of national security functions of the Coast Guard in support of DOD, requiring a certification of the proper use of such funds. (Sec. 1005) Authorizes the use of DOD funds for the military education and training of military and civilian personnel of foreign countries (under the military-to-military contacts program). (Sec. 1006) Authorizes the payment of certain personnel, equipment, services, and supplies expenses related to the provision by DOD of humanitarian and civic assistance. (Sec. 1007) Prohibits DOD funds appropriated for intelligence activities from being obligated or expended by an individual who is not an officer or employee of DOD. (Sec. 1008) Prohibits funds authorized under this Act or otherwise made available to the Navy for FY 1997 from being obligated or expended by the Office of Naval Intelligence for official representation activities or related activities. (Sec. 1009) Expresses the sense of the Congress that, whenever the President directs the Secretary to provide disaster assistance outside the United States, the President should direct the Administrator of the Agency for International Development to reimburse DOD for such costs. (Sec. 1010) Provides a Fisher House Trust Fund for the Navy, funds from which shall be used for the operation of Fisher houses (houses located near a military medical treatment facility and used for the temporary lodging of patients of such facility and their immediate family). (Sec. 1011) Provides for the designation and liability of Coast Guard disbursing and certifying officials. Places authority over such officials with the Department of Transportation when the Coast Guard is not operating as a service in the Navy. (Sec. 1012) Authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to suspend an action by the Secretary to collect a claim against a deceased member of the Coast Guard when considered appropriate. (Sec. 1013) Authorizes a Federal disbursing official to undertake check cashing and other exchange transactions at a Federal credit union that is operating at DOD invitation in a foreign country where contractor-operated military banking facilities are not available. Subtitle B: Naval Vessels and Shipyards - Authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to transfer to the governments of Egypt, Mexico, New Zealand, Portugal, Taiwan, and Thailand specified naval vessels. Directs such Secretary to require that any required repair or refurbishment of such vessels take place at a U.S. shipyard, including a Navy shipyard. Terminates the transfer authority two years after enactment of this Act. (Sec. 1022) Authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to transfer six obsolete Navy tugboats to the Northeast Wisconsin Railroad Transportation Commission. (Sec. 1023) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1996 to repeal the requirement of the continuous applicability of phased maintenance contracts for AE-class ships. (Sec. 1024) Reaffirms the sense of the Congress that the Secretary of the Navy should plan for and budget to provide for the acquisition of 19 large, medium-speed, roll-on, roll-off vessels rather than only 17 such vessels (as in the current contract). Subtitle C: Counter-Drug Activities - Authorizes the Secretary to provide additional counter-drug support to the Government of Mexico during FY 1997. Provides funding. (Sec. 1032) Prohibits DOD funds from this or any other Act from being obligated or expended for the National Drug Intelligence Center, Johnstown, Pennsylvania, with an exception. Requires a joint investigation of the operations of such Center by various inspectors general and a report to the Congress on the results of such investigation. Subtitle D: Matters Relating to Foreign Countries - Authorizes the Secretary to enter into agreements with the governments of U.S. allies and other friendly foreign countries for the exchange of military and civilian personnel of DOD with similar personnel of such foreign governments. (Sec. 1042) Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to provide for the reciprocal exchange of personnel between the United States and foreign countries for attendance at flight training schools or programs. (Sec. 1043) Amends the Weapons of Mass Destruction Control Act of 1992 to extend through FY 1998 the authority to support international nonproliferation activities. Subtitle E: Miscellaneous Reporting Requirements - Requires an annual report from the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) to the defense committees on emerging operational concepts. (Sec. 1052) Requires the Secretary to report to the defense committees on a joint war fighting science and technology plan. (Sec. 1053) Directs the JCS Chairman to report to the defense and appropriations committees on the military readiness requirements of the armed forces. Requires such report to be prepared by the Chief of Staff (Commandant, for the Marines) of each armed force. Subtitle F: Other Matters - Amends the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) to except from the competitive service appointments to certain nonattorney positions on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces. (Sec. 1062) Prohibits DOD funds from being obligated or expended during FY 1997 for retiring or dismantling B-52H bomber aircraft, Trident ballistic missile submarines, Minuteman II ICBMs, or Peacekeeper ICBMs. Authorizes a waiver of such prohibition when determined necessary to implement the START II Treaty. (Sec. 1063) Corrects legal and statutory references with respect to the North American Aerospace Defense Command and the Defense Distribution Depot, Anniston, Alabama. (Sec. 1064) Authorizes certain members of the reserves to act as a notary public or U.S. consul. (Sec. 1065) Authorizes military personnel to use non-Government facilities for training activities. (Sec. 1066) Provides that if a member of the armed forces is injured or contracts a disease under circumstances creating a tort liability upon a third person, and such member is unable to perform his or her duties as a result of such injury or disease, then the United States shall have a right of recovery against such third person for the value of pay that accrues to such member for the period in which they are incapacitated. (Sec. 1067) Prohibits DOD funds from being used to adopt or enforce any rule or other prohibition that discriminates against the display of the flag of a particular State, territory, or possession of the United States at an official ceremony at any installation or other facility of DOD at which the official flags of other U.S. States, territories, or possessions are being displayed. (Sec. 1068) Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) accept gifts and donations from foreign governments and other individuals or entities within foreign countries in order to defray the costs of operation of the George C. Marshall European Center for Strategic Security Studies; (2) permit representatives of a foreign government to participate in a program at the Center when found to be in the U.S. national interest; and (3) waive certain financial disclosure requirements for a foreign member of the Board of Visitors of the Center serving without compensation. (Sec. 1069) Authorizes the Speaker of the House and President pro temp of the Senate to jointly present a bronze medal (previously awarded only to military personnel) to certain civilian participants in the defense of Pearl Harbor. Authorizes appropriations. Makes such authority effective as of November 5, 1990. (Sec. 1070) Redesignates the Nellis Federal Hospital in Las Vegas, Nevada, as the Michael O'Callaghan Federal Hospital. (Sec. 1071) Expresses the sense of the Senate that the Secretary should name Building A at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences as the David Packard Building. Title XI: Department of Defense Civilian Personnel - Subtitle A: Personnel Management, Pay, and Allowances - Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1996 to direct the Secretary, by the end of FY 1996, to convert 3,000 military positions to civilian positions. (Sec. 1102) Authorizes the Secretary to retain civilian employee positions of DOD at a military installation which is to be closed and which is scheduled for transfer during FY 1997 to National Guard operation and control, in order to facilitate active and reserve component training at such installation. Limits the maximum number of positions retained to 20 percent of the Federal civilian work force employed at such installation as of September 8, 1995. (Sec. 1104) Authorizes the Secretary to provide DOD civilian employees (and their family members) abroad with benefits comparable to those provided by the Secretary of State to members of the Foreign Service serving abroad. (Sec. 1105) Authorizes an employee of a nonappropriated fund instrumentality of DOD or the Coast Guard who moves, without a break in service of more than three days, to a position in DOD or the Coast Guard to receive travel, transportation, and related expenses under the same conditions and to the same extent as regular DOD or Coast Guard employees. (Sec. 1106) Amends the Defense Department Overseas Pay and Personnel Practices Act to require the Secretary of the military department concerned (currently, the Secretary of Defense) to conduct the employment and salary practices applicable to teachers employed overseas in that department. (Sec. 1107) Authorizes the Secretary to employ appropriate teaching faculty at the English Language Center of the Defense Language Institute and the Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies. (Sec. 1108) Authorizes the Secretary to provide reimbursement to DOD domestic dependent school board members for expenses incurred in the performance of school board duties. (Sec. 1109) Extends through FY 2001 the authority for civilian DOD employees to participate in voluntary DOD reductions-in-force. (Sec. 1110) Authorizes an agency head to grant employee compensatory time off in lieu of overtime pay for time spent in irregular or overtime work. (Sec. 1111) Provides for the lump-sum payment of annual leave to a DOD employee for leave that remains unused upon the employee's transfer from an installation being closed or realigned under a base closure law. (Sec. 1112) Waives the requirement for the repayment of voluntary separation incentive pay by former DOD employees who are reemployed when such employment is without pay. (Sec. 1113) Provides Federal holiday observance procedures for DOD employees when a holiday occurs on that employee's regularly scheduled day off. (Sec. 1114) Repeals Federal provisions: (1) requiring a specified percentage of hotels in which Federal employees are booked to meet fire safety and control requirements of the Federal Fire Prevention and Control Act of 1974; and (2) prohibiting the payment of lodging expenses of DOD employees when adequate Government facilities are available. Subtitle B: Defense Economic Adjustment, Diversification, Conversion, and Stabilization - Authorizes the Secretary to establish a pilot program under which Federal retirement benefits are provided to persons who convert from Federal employment in the Navy or Air Force to employment with a DOD contractor in connection with the privatization of the performance of functions at selected military installations being closed under the base closure and realignment process. Outlines provisions concerning: (1) eligible transferred employees; (2) applicable retirement benefits; (3) computation of average pay; (4) the payment by the military department concerned of the unfunded liability in the Civil Service Retirement and Disability Fund caused by the addition of such benefits; (5) the termination 90 days after such transfer of Federal health benefits coverage; (6) a study and report from the Comptroller General to the Congress on each pilot program established under; and (7) required implementing regulations by the Director of the Office of Personnel Management. (Sec. 1122) Directs (currently authorizes) the Secretary to establish a program providing assistance to terminated DOD employees and DOD contractor employees in obtaining certification and employment in the private sector as teachers and teachers' aides (known as the troops-to-teachers program). Reduces from five to two school years the period of obligated service after such assistance and certification. Title XII: Federal Charter for the Fleet Reserve Association - Recognizes and grants a Federal charter to the Fleet Reserve Association, a nonprofit organization formed to aid and maintain an adequate naval defense for the United States and assist in the recruitment and welfare of personnel in the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. Requires the Association to report annually to the Congress on its activities. Division B: Military Construction Authorizations - Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1997 - Title XXI(sic): Army - Authorizes the Secretary of the Army to acquire real property and carry out military construction projects in specified amounts at specified installations and locations. Authorizes the Secretary to construct or acquire family housing units, to carry out architectural planning and design activities, and to improve existing military family housing in specified amounts. Authorizes appropriations to the Army for fiscal years after 1996 for military construction, land acquisition, and military family housing functions of the Army. Limits the total cost of construction projects authorized by this title. Title XXII: Navy - Provides, with respect to the Navy, authorizations paralleling those provided for the Army under the previous title. (Sec. 2204) Authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to make advances to the Secretary of Transportation for the construction of defense access roads. Title XXIII: Air Force - Provides, with respect to the Air Force, authorizations paralleling those provided for the Army. Title XXIV: Defense Agencies - Authorizes the Secretary to acquire real property and carry out military construction projects in specified amounts at specified installations and locations. Authorizes the Secretary to carry out architectural planning and design activities and to improve existing military family housing units, in specified amounts. (Sec. 2404) Earmarks funds authorized under this title for the Department of Defense Family Housing Improvement Fund and the Department of Defense Military Unaccompanied Housing Improvement Fund, for appropriate uses. (Sec. 2405) Authorizes the Secretary to carry out certain energy conservation projects. (Sec. 2406) Authorizes appropriations to DOD for fiscal years after 1996 for military construction, land acquisition, and military family housing functions of DOD. Limits the total cost of construction projects authorized by this title. Title XXV: North Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment Program - Authorizes the Secretary to make contributions for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Security Investment Program and authorizes appropriations for fiscal years after 1996 for such contributions. (Sec. 2503) Redesignates the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Infrastructure Program as the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment Program. Title XXVI: Guard and Reserve Forces Facilities - Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years after 1996 for the Guard and Reserve forces for acquisition, architectural and engineering services, and construction of facilities. Title XXVII: Expiration and Extension of Authorizations - Terminates all authorizations contained in titles XXI through XXVI of this Act on October 1, 1999, or the date of enactment of an Act authorizing funds for military construction for FY 2000, whichever is later, with exceptions. Extends certain prior-year military construction projects. Title XXVIII: General Provisions - Subtitle A: Military Construction Program and Military Family Housing Changes - Increases threshold amounts for unspecified minor military construction projects. (Sec. 2802) Authorizes day-to-day maintenance and repair of military family housing. Includes under authorized military family housing activities the building of drives into such facilities. (Sec. 2803) Authorizes the Secretary concerned to grant easements for rights-of-way for electric poles and lines and for communications lines and facilities. Subtitle B: Defense Base Closure and Realignment - Amends the Defense Authorization Amendments and Base Closure and Realignment Act to authorize the Secretary to transfer real property or facilities at military installations closed or realigned under a base closure law to a military department or other entity within DOD or the Coast Guard. (Sec. 2812) Amends the above Act and the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Act of 1990 (together, the base closure laws) to: (1) provide for the deposit of proceeds from the disposal of commissary stores and nonappropriated fund instrumentalities at installations closed or realigned under a base closure law; (2) authorize the Secretary to use such amounts for the acquisition, construction, or improvement of such stores and instrumentalities; and (3) authorize the Secretary to enter into agreements for services at such installations after their closure or realignment. Subtitle C: Land Conveyances - Directs the Secretaries of the Interior and the Army to undertake a specified land exchange within the Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia. (Sec. 2822) Directs the Secretary of the Navy to transfer to the United States Institute for Peace administrative jurisdiction over the Potomac Annex in Washington, D.C. (Sec. 2823) Authorizes the Secretary of the: (1) Army to convey to Montpelier, Vermont, the Army Reserve Center in Montpelier; (2) Navy to convey to Delaware the former Naval Reserve Facility in Lewes, Delaware; (3) Air Force to convey to the Belle Fourche School District, South Dakota, the Air Force radar bomb scoring site in Belle Fourche; (4) Air Force to convey to an appropriate entity the primate research complex at Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico; and (5) Air Force to carry out a demonstration project for the installation and operation by private entities of an electric power distribution system at the Youngstown Air Reserve Station in Youngstown, Ohio. Division C: Department of Energy National Security Authorizations and Other Authorizations - Title XXXI(sic): Department of Energy National Security Programs - Subtitle A: National Security Programs Authorizations - Authorizes appropriations to the Department of Energy (DOE) for FY 1997 for operating expenses, plant projects, and capital equipment necessary in carrying out the following activities for national security programs: (1) weapons activities; (2) environmental restoration and waste management; (3) other defense activities; and (4) nuclear waste disposal. Subtitle B: Recurring General Provisions - Prohibits the use of funds appropriated pursuant to this title for: (1) the cost of a program exceeding 110 percent of the program authorization or $1 million more than the amount authorized, whichever is the lesser; or (2) programs which have not been presented to, or requested of, the Congress, unless the Secretary of Energy (Secretary, for purposes of this Division) transmits to the appropriate congressional committees a full statement of the action proposed and 30 days have since expired. (Sec. 3122) Places certain funding limits (requiring congressional reports when amounts exceed such limits) for general plant and construction projects of DOE. Provides fund transfer authority (requiring congressional notification of any such transfer). (Sec. 3125) Directs the Secretary, before submitting a funding request for a construction project in support of a DOE national security program, to complete a conceptual design for such project. Requires a separate funding request for such designs for which the estimated costs exceed $3 million. Authorizes the Secretary to carry out construction design services in connection with any proposed construction project if the total estimated cost for the design does not exceed $600,000. Requires specific authorization by law for designs that exceed such amount. (Sec. 3126) Authorizes the use of DOE funds for planning, design, and construction activities for any DOE national security program that must proceed expeditiously in order to protect public health and safety, meet the needs of national defense, or protect property. Requires the Secretary to report to the defense and appropriations committees when funds are so used. Makes funds for management and support activities and for general plant projects under this Subtitle available for all DOE national security programs. Subtitle C: Program Authorizations, Restrictions, and Limitations - Requires the Secretary to make a final decision during FY 1997 on the technologies to be utilized, and the accelerated schedule to be adopted, for tritium production in order to meet the requirements of a certain Nuclear Weapons Stockpile Memorandum. Requires a report to the Congress. Earmarks funds authorized under this title for such activities. (Sec. 3132) Directs the Secretary to carry out activities to modernize and consolidate the tritium recycling facilities at the Savannah River Site, South Carolina. Provides funding. (Sec. 3133) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1996 to add a specified purpose and capability of the general requirements for the DOE nuclear weapons stockpile program. Requires a plan and report with respect to such program. Provides funding. (Sec. 3134) Prohibits FY 1997 DOE funds from being used for certain research and development or technology transfer purposes unless such activities support the DOE national security mission. Requires an annual report. (Sec. 3135) Directs the Secretary to accelerate the schedule for the isolation of high-level nuclear waste in glass canisters at the Defense Waste Processing Facility at the Savannah River Site if the Secretary determines that such acceleration will achieve cost savings and the removal and isolation of such waste from the long-term storage tanks there. (Sec. 3136) Earmarks funds authorized under this title for the processing of high-level nuclear waste and spent nuclear fuel rods. Requires the updating of an implementation plan concerning such waste under a prior defense authorization Act. (Sec. 3137) Earmarks funds for conducting the fellowship program for the development of skills critical to the ongoing mission of the DOE nuclear weapons complex as required under prior law. Requires 21 days' advance notification to the Congress before funds may be obligated or expended for such program. Subtitle D: Other Matters - Directs the Secretary to annually prepare, and submit to the defense and appropriations committees, a five-year budget for DOE national security programs. (Sec. 3152) Sets forth specified requirements for DOE weapons activities budgets for fiscal years after 1997. (Sec. 3153) Repeals a provision of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1995 which requires a report from the President to the defense and appropriations committees on issues associated with purchasing tritium from foreign suppliers. (Sec. 3154) Directs the Secretary to report to the Congress a plan for the near-term processing of spent nuclear fuel rods in two facilities of the Savannah River Site. Requires the Secretary to develop and implement a multiyear plan for the cleanup of nuclear waste at the Site. (Sec. 3155) Requires reports concerning: (1) nuclear test readiness postures; and (2) critical difficulties encountered at nuclear weapons laboratories and production plants. (Sec. 3157) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1995 to extend through December 31, 1997, a requirement concerning notification to the Congress and a subsequent waiting period before undertaking a proposed defense cooperation agreement. (Sec. 3158) Redesignates the Defense Environmental Restoration and Waste Management Program as the Defense Nuclear Waste Management Program. Redesignates the Assistant Secretary in charge of such Program as the Assistant Secretary of Energy for Defense Nuclear Waste Management. Redesignates a related Account. Directs the Secretary to report to the defense and appropriations committees on such redesignations. (Sec. 3159) Establishes the Commission on Maintaining United States Nuclear Weapons Expertise to develop and report to the Congress a plan for recruiting and retaining within the DOE nuclear weapons complex the appropriate scientific, engineering, and technical personnel necessary to permit DOE to maintain a safe and reliable nuclear weapons stockpile without engaging in underground testing. Terminates the Commission 30 days after its report. Provides Commission funding. (Sec. 3160) Expresses the sense of the Senate that the President: (1) should consult closely with the Congress concerning U.S. policy and practices for ensuring the safety and reliability of the U.S. nuclear stockpile; and (2) if he determines that a safety or reliability problem cannot be corrected within the stockpile stewardship program, to notify the Congress of such problem, together with a plan for corrective action. Title XXXII: Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board - Authorizes appropriations for FY 1997 for the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board. Title XXXIII: National Defense Stockpile - Authorizes the National Defense Stockpile (NDS) Manager, during FY 1997, to obligate up to $60 million of the funds in the National Defense Stockpile Transaction Fund (Fund) for authorized Fund uses. Authorizes the NDS Manager to obligate amounts excess to such amount 45 days after notifying the Congress that extraordinary or emergency conditions necessitate the additional obligations. (Sec. 3302) Directs the President to dispose of NDS materials, with specified disposal limits. Provides for the deposit of receipts from such disposals. Title XXXIV: Naval Petroleum Reserves - Authorizes appropriations for FY 1997 for activities relating to the naval petroleum reserves. Title XXXV: Panama Canal Commission - Panama Canal Commission Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1997 - Authorizes the Panama Canal Commission to make such expenditures as necessary for the operation, maintenance, improvement, and administration of the Panama Canal for FY 1997, with specified limitations. Requires such funds to be made available for the purchase and transportation to the Republic of Panama of passenger motor vehicles built in the United States. Requires expenditures authorized under this title to be in accordance with the Panama Canal Treaties of 1977 and any law implementing those treaties.
Bill· SS. 1739 (104th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 8 May 1996
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to reduce by 4.3 cents per gallon the tax on gasoline, diesel and aviation fuel, fuel used by commercial waterway transportation vessels, special motor fuels, and methanol or ethanol fuels. Makes the reduction effective from seven days after enactment of this Act until January 1, 1997. Provides for the treatment of floor stocks. Expresses the sense of the Congress that consumers immediately receive the benefits. Requires the Comptroller General to study and report to specified congressional committees on whether there has been a passthrough to consumers. Amends the Department of Energy Organization Act to authorize appropriations to carry out the Act. Requires the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to complete actions necessary to permit the competitive bidding of licenses for the use of described frequency bands. Prohibits the FCC from treating enactment of this Act as an expression of the intent of the Congress regarding the award of initial licenses of construction permits for Advanced Television Services.
Bill· HRH.R. 3415 (104th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 8 May 1996
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to reduce by 4.3 cents per gallon the tax on gasoline, diesel and aviation fuel, fuel used by commercial waterway transportation vessels, special motor fuels, and methanol or ethanol fuels. Makes the reduction effective from seven days after enactment of this Act until January 1, 1997. Provides for the treatment of floor stocks. Expresses the sense of the Congress that consumers immediately receive the benefits. Requires the Comptroller General to study and report to specified congressional committees on whether there has been a passthrough to consumers. Amends the Department of Energy Organization Act to authorize appropriations to carry out the Act. Requires the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to complete actions necessary to permit the competitive bidding of licenses for the use of described frequency bands. Prohibits the FCC from treating enactment of this Act as an expression of the intent of the Congress regarding the award of initial licenses of construction permits for Advanced Television Services.
Bill· HRH.R. 3410 (104th)open
United States · United States Congress · 7 May 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Tax Incentives for Oil and Gas Production Subtitle A: Production Credit Subtitle B: Modifications to Percentage Depletion Title II: Percentage Depletion Rate for Marginal Production Title III: Other Provisions Title IV: 6-Year Period of Limitation for Collection of Oil and Gas Royalties Energy Independence Act of 1996 - Title I: Tax Incentives for Oil and Gas Production - Subtitle A: Production Credit - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a business tax credit for producing crude oil and natural gas from new wells and marginal wells. Provides: (1) a formula for reducing such credit in years in which oil and gas prices increase; and (2) an inflation adjustment for such formula. Allows such credit against the regular and minimum tax. Subtitle B: Modifications to Percentage Depletion - Repeals the net income limitation on percentage depletion for oil and gas properties. (Sec. 112) Makes all marginal production of domestic crude oil or domestic natural gas eligible for percentage depletion. Title II: Percentage Depletion Rate for Marginal Production - Revises the percentage depletion rate for such marginal production. Title III: Other Provisions - Allows the election to treat geological and geophysical expenses incurred in connection with the exploration for, or development of, domestic oil or gas as expenses which are not chargeable to capital account. (Sec. 302) Makes the enhanced oil recovery credit applicable to secondary recovery methods. Allows such credit against the minimum tax. Title IV: 6-Year Period of Limitation for Collection of Oil and Gas Royalties - Establishes a six-year statute of limitations on actions commenced by the United States for recovery of royalties due under an oil and gas lease on Federal lands unless a lessee has made a false or fraudulent statement with the intent to evade the royalties due.
Bill· HRH.R. 3394 (104th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 7 May 1996
Low-Level Radioactive Waste Policy Act of 1996 - Directs the Secretary of the Interior to perform the following duties: (1) dispose of low-level radioactive waste generated within any State outside a sited compact region; (2) establish a disposal facility for low-level radioactive waste on federally-owned land; (3) accept for disposal any low-level radioactive waste generated within any State outside a sited compact region; (4) contract with the Secretary of Energy for the temporary storage of low-level radioactive waste at any Department of Energy radioactive waste facility; (5) take physical possession, by a specified date, of low-level radioactive waste tendered by a waste generator, broker, or State regulatory official, regardless of whether a contract with the Secretary of Energy has been executed; and (6) establish low-level radioactive waste disposal rates.
Bill· HRH.R. 3375 (104th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 May 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Abolishment of Department of Energy Title II: Energy Laboratory Facilities Title III: Privatization of Federal Power Marketing Administrations Title IV: Transfer and Disposal of Reserves Title V: National Security and Environmental Management Programs Subtitle A: Defense Nuclear Programs Agency Subtitle B: Environmental Restoration Activities at Defense Nuclear Facilities Title VI: Disposition of Miscellaneous Particular Programs, Functions, and Agencies of Department Title VII: Civilian Radioactive Waste Management Title VIII: Miscellaneous Provisions Repeal of the 1993 Gas Tax Act - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to decrease the tax rate on gasoline, diesel fuel, aviation fuel, and fuel used in commercial waterway transportation. Department of Energy Abolishment Act - Title I: Abolishment of Department of Energy - Redesignates the Department of Energy (DOE) as the Energy Programs Resolution Agency (the Agency), headed by an Administrator, to perform the previous functions of the Department of Energy. Provides for the continuation of service of the Secretary of Energy as the interim Administrator. (Sec. 105) Authorizes the Administrator to establish, consolidate, alter, or discontinue in the Energy Programs Resolution Agency any organizational entities that were entities of DOE. Abolishes the Agency three years after the date of enactment of this Act. Directs the Comptroller General to report to the Congress on the most efficient way to accomplish the complete abolishment of DOE and the transfer or termination of its functions. Title II: Energy Laboratory Facilities - Establishes the Energy Laboratory Facilities Commission to privatize and reduce energy laboratories and programs. Prescribes procedural guidelines. (Sec. 205) Establishes the Energy Laboratory Facility Closure Account to fund implementation of such guidelines. Title III: Privatization of Federal Power Marketing Administrations - Federal Power Asset Privatization Act of 1995 - Directs the Secretary of Energy to sell, at the highest possible price, all Federal electric power generation and transmission facilities supervised by, or coordinated with, the Federal Power Marketing Administrations (except the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA)). Restricts such sales to domestic entities or U.S. citizens. Requires the Secretary to terminate Federal Power Marketing Administration operations (except those of the BPA) upon completion of the sales. Directs the Secretary to retain a private sector firm through a competitive bidding process to serve as financial advisor with respect to such sales. Expresses the sense of the Congress that the purchaser of any such facilities should offer to employ former Federal Power Marketing Administration personnel. Mandates that sale proceeds be deposited into the Treasury. Sets forth a sales completion deadline for each Power Marketing Administration concerned. (Sec. 305) Mandates that the pertinent sales agreements require each purchaser providing electric power to customers within any region to insure that the price of electric power does not increase above the baseline price at a rate greater than ten percent annually. (Sec. 306) Directs the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to issue to the purchaser of a hydroelectric generation facility a ten-year original license under the Federal Power Act to insure that the project will continue operations under the same conditions as were applicable prior to the sale. Grants FERC Federal Power Act jurisdiction over any such facility sold. (Sec. 307) Amends the Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act of 1993 to repeal the proscription against the use of appropriated funds for studies regarding a changeover from an "at cost" to a "market rate" or other noncost-based methodology for pricing hydroelectric power. (Sec. 308) Transfers to the Secretary of the Interior all DOE functions affecting the BPA. Instructs the Secretary to study and report to the Congress on the most cost-effective option of disposing of the BPA. Title IV: Transfer and Disposal of Reserves - Transfers to the Secretary of the Interior all former DOE functions affecting the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. Instructs the Secretary to: (1) sell the reserves held at Weeks Island, Louisiana; (2) appoint an advisory board to monitor the sale of such reserves and report to the Congress on whether the United States should maintain or dispose of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. (Sec. 402) Directs the Secretary of Energy to: (1) transfer jurisdiction and control over naval petroleum reserves to the Department of the Interior; and (2) sell all Federal right, title, and interest in the Naval Petroleum Reserve Numbered 1 (Elk Hills). (Sec. 403) Directs the Secretary of the Interior to study and report to the Congress on the most cost-effective options for other Federal interests in naval petroleum reserves. Title V: National Security and Environmental Management Programs - Subtitle A: Defense Nuclear Programs Agency - Establishes the Defense Nuclear Programs Agency (the Agency) in the Department of Defense (DOD), headed by an Under Secretary for Defense Nuclear Programs (the Under Secretary) with primary responsibility for defense nuclear programs. (Sec. 504) Transfers to the Under Secretary all supervisory functions previously performed by: (1) DOE over Sandia, Los Alamos, and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratories; (2) Defense Nuclear Agency of DOD relating to nuclear weapons systems; and (3) the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board. Authorizes the Secretary of Defense to transfer other nuclear weapons-related functions to the Under Secretary. (Sec. 505) Places restrictions upon the transfer of funds by the Agency. Subtitle B: Environmental Restoration Activities at Defense Nuclear Facilities - Amends the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 to require the Under Secretary to review ongoing and planned remediation activities consistent with this Act. (Sec. 521) Sets forth guidelines for site-specific risk assessment before the selection of a remedial action at a defense nuclear facility which include an analysis of risk reduction benefits and costs. (Sec. 523) Instructs the Under Secretary to renegotiate the terms of any compliance agreement entered into with the Secretary of Energy, the Environmental Protection Agency and the relevant State in order to have it reflect this Act. Title VI: Disposition of Miscellaneous Particular Programs, Functions, and Agencies of Department - Limits authorizations for enumerated energy research and development programs through FY 2000. (Sec. 601) Directs the Energy Laboratory Facilities Commission to identify for the Congress all DOE research and development activities carried out at energy laboratories or institutions of higher education that perform a critical research function important to the long-term economic well-being of the United States. Directs the Secretary of Energy to terminate all DOE clean coal technology research and development activities. Authorizes appropriations for DOE fossil energy and energy conservation research and development activities. Terminates such activities at the end of FY 1998. Transfers from DOE to DOD specified: (1) weapons activities; and (2) materials support and other defense programs. (Sec. 602) Transfers to the Department of the Treasury all functions performed by the Energy Information Administration (EIA). Authorizes appropriations for the EIA. Transfers to the Attorney General all functions performed by the Energy Regulatory Administration. Title VII: Civilian Radioactive Waste Management - Amends the Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982 to terminate the Office of Civilian Radioactive Waste Management and transfer its authority and assets to the Army Corps of Engineers (the Corps). Provides that the Corps shall assume all obligations of the Office affecting the Yucca Mountain site, and that Nevada State permits shall be reissued for the Corps. Prescribes procedural guidelines for Corps preparation and implementation of a Yucca Mountain site characterization plan. Title VIII: Miscellaneous Provisions - Sets forth miscellaneous implementing provisions, conferring upon the Office of Management and Budget the authority to make any determination regarding functions transferred under this Act and incidental transfers.
Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 178 (104th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 May 1996
Expresses congressional disapproval of specified rules submitted by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission regarding: (1) the promotion of wholesale competition through open access nondiscriminatory transmission services by public utilities; and (2) recovery of stranded costs by public utilities and transmitting utilities. Declares that such rules shall have no force or effect.
Bill· SS. 1718 (104th)open
United States · United States Congress · 30 April 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Intelligence Activities Title II: Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System Title III: General Provisions Title IV: Federal Bureau of Investigation Title V: Economic Espionage Title VI: Combatting Proliferation Subtitle A: Assessment of Organization and Structure of Government for Combatting Proliferation Subtitle B: Other Matters Title VII: Renewal and Reform of Intelligence Activities Title VIII: National Imagery and Mapping Agency Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1997 - Title I: Intelligence Activities - Authorizes appropriations for FY 1997 for the conduct of the intelligence and intelligence-related activities of the: (1) Central Intelligence Agency (CIA); (2) Department of Defense (DOD); (3) Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA); (4) National Security Agency (NSA); (5) Departments of the Army, Navy, and Air Force; (6) Departments of State, the Treasury, and Energy; (7) Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); (8) Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); (9) National Reconnaissance Office (NRO); and (10) Central Imagery Office. (Sec. 102) Specifies that the amounts authorized to be appropriated and the authorized personnel ceilings as of September 30, 1997, for such activities are those specified in the classified Schedule of Authorizations which shall be made available to the Senate and House Appropriations Committees and the President. (Sec. 103) Allows the Director of Central Intelligence (DCI), with the approval of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), to authorize employment of civilian personnel in excess of the number authorized for FY 1997 when necessary to the performance of important intelligence functions. Requires notification to the Senate and House Intelligence Committees (intelligence committees). (Sec. 104) Authorizes appropriations for the Community Management Account of the DCI for FY 1997. Title II: Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System - Authorizes appropriations for the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability Fund for FY 1997. Title III: General Provisions - Permits appropriations authorized by this Act for salary, pay, retirement, and other benefits for Federal employees to be increased by such additional amounts as may be necessary for increases in such compensation or benefits authorized by law. (Sec. 302) Specifies that the authorization of appropriations by this Act shall not be deemed to constitute authority for the conduct of any intelligence activity which is not otherwise authorized by the Constitution or laws of the United States. (Sec. 303) Amends the National Security Act of 1947 (the Act) to extend for an additional two years the authority of the President to stay the imposition of an economic, cultural, diplomatic, or other sanction or related action when the President determines and reports to the Congress that to proceed without delay would seriously risk the compromise of an intelligence source or method or an ongoing criminal investigation. (Sec. 304) Requires the DCI to prescribe regulations requiring each new and current CIA employee to sign a written agreement restricting the activities of that employee upon ceasing employment with the CIA. (Sec. 305) Directs the President to report to the congressional intelligence committees on actions that have been taken to ensure adequate oversight by the executive branch of the budgets of NRO and other elements of the intelligence community within DOD. Title IV: Federal Bureau of Investigation - Amends the Federal criminal code to authorize the FBI Director to request local and long distance toll billing records for counterintelligence purposes, subject to specified requirements. Revises provisions regarding civil actions for violations regarding stored wire and electronic communications and transactional records access to authorize any individual aggrieved by such a violation to bring suit. Authorizes the court to assess: (1) punitive damages if the violation is willful or intentional; and (2) costs of the action, together with reasonable attorney's fees, in the case of a successful action. Provides for disciplinary actions for violations. Title V: Economic Espionage - Economic Espionage Act of 1996 - Amends the Federal criminal code to prohibit theft of proprietary economic information undertaken on behalf of, or with intent to benefit, a foreign government or its agent, with exceptions. Specifies a separate maximum punishment for an organization found guilty of such offense. Provides for criminal forfeiture of property constituting or derived from any proceeds of such violation and any property used to commit or facilitate such violation. Authorizes the President, consistent with international obligations, to prohibit for up to five years the importation or exportation of any merchandise produced, made, assembled, or manufactured by a person or organization convicted of an offense under this title. Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to impose civil penalties of up to $100,000. Sets forth provisions regarding seizure and forfeiture and applicability of customs laws. Sets forth provisions regarding the scope of extraterritorial jurisdiction, the preservation of the confidentiality of proprietary economic information, and the non-impairment of lawful intelligence and law enforcement activities. Title VI: Combatting Proliferation - Combatting Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction Act of 1996 - Subtitle A: Assessment of Organization and Structure of Government for Combatting Proliferation - Establishes the Commission to Assess the Organization of the Federal Government to Combat the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction. Directs the Commission to study the organization of the Government, including the elements of the intelligence community, and to report to the Congress on recommendations for improving the effectiveness of the organization of Federal departments and agencies in meeting U.S. national security interests with respect to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. Authorizes appropriations. Subtitle B: Other Matters - Requires the DCI to report on: (1) the acquisition by foreign countries of dual-use and other technology useful for the development or production of weapons of mass destruction and advanced conventional munitions; and (2) trends in the acquisition of such technology by such countries. Title VII: Renewal and Reform of Intelligence Activities - Intelligence Activities Renewal and Reform Act of 1996 - Establishes within the National Security Council the Committee on Foreign Intelligence. Directs the Committee to: (1) conduct an annual review of U.S. national security interests; (2) identify on an annual basis the intelligence required to meet such interests and establish an order of priority for the collection and analysis of such intelligence; (3) conduct an annual review of the intelligence community to determine its success in collecting, analyzing, and disseminating such intelligence; and (4) submit each year to the Council and the DCI a comprehensive report on its activities. (Sec. 703) Amends the Act to: (1) direct the President to report to the appropriate congressional committees on U.S. intelligence requirements and the activities of the intelligence community; and (2) provide for the establishment within the National Security Council of a Committee on Transnational Threats. (Sec. 705) Revises provisions of the Act regarding the duties, composition, and staffing of the Office of the DCI. (Sec. 706) Revises provisions regarding the National Intelligence Council. Requires the DCI to prescribe appropriate security requirements for persons appointed from the private sector as contractors of the Council or employees of such contractors. Authorizes the Center (sic) to carry out its responsibilities by contract, including contracts for substantive experts necessary to assist with particular assessments. Directs that the Center be readily accessible to policy making officials and other appropriate individuals not otherwise associated with the intelligence community. (Sec. 707) Revises the Act to require the DCI to facilitate the development of an annual budget for intelligence and intelligence-related activities of the United States by: (1) developing and presenting to the President an annual budget for the National Foreign Intelligence Program (NFIP); (2) concurring in the development by the Secretary of Defense (Secretary) of the annual budget for the Joint Military Intelligence Program; and (3) consulting with the Secretary in the development of the annual budget for the Tactical Intelligence and Related Activities Program. Requires the DCI to manage the national collection activities of the intelligence community to ensure that such activities, and the intelligence collected thereby, meet national security requirements. Modifies Act provisions to require: (1) the DCI's prior approval of any reprogramming of funds made available under the NFIP or Joint Military Intelligence Program; and (2) consultation of the Secretary or head of the department which contains the affected elements of the intelligence community by the DCI before any transfer of funds or personnel. Requires the DCI, with the approval of the OMB Director, to direct and oversee the allocation, allotment, obligation, and expenditure of funds for the national intelligence programs, projects, and activities that are managed by the Directors of the CIA, NSA, NRO, and National Imagery and Mapping Agency (NIMA). Requires the DCI to rotate personnel among intelligence community elements and to consolidate personnel, administrative, training, and security programs and management activities after consultation (currently, coordination) with affected department and agency heads. (Sec. 708) Revises Act provisions to require the Secretary to consult, and share responsibility, with the DCI regarding general responsibilities and the performance of certain NFIP functions. (Sec. 709) Amends the Act to establish Assistant Directors of Central Intelligence for: (1) Collection; (2) Analysis and Production; and (3) Administration. Provides for the transfer from the Secretary to the DCI of responsibilities and authorities for the collection of clandestine intelligence from human sources currently conducted by DOD's Defense Human Intelligence Service. (Sec. 712) Sets the pay level of the three new Assistant Directors of Central Intelligence. (Sec. 713) Amends the Central Intelligence Agency Act of 1949 to establish a General Counsel of the CIA. (Sec. 714) Amends the Act to: (1) establish the Office of Congressional Affairs of the Intelligence Community; and (2) authorize intelligence agencies to collect information outside the United States about non-U.S. persons at the request of a law enforcement agency. (Sec. 716) Revises Act provisions to require the Secretary to obtain the concurrence of the DCI before appointing an individual to fill a vacancy for Director of NSA or Director of NRO. Directs the department head having jurisdiction over the position to consult with the DCI before appointing or recommending to the President an individual to fill a vacancy for: Director of DIA, Assistant Secretary of State for Intelligence and Research, Director of the Office of Non-proliferation and National Security of the Department of Energy, and Assistant Director, National Security Division of the FBI. Requires the DCI to provide annually to the Secretary an evaluation of the performance of the Directors of the NSA, NRO, and NIMA. (Sec. 717) Amends the Act to require the DCI to establish a personnel system to be known as the Intelligence Community Senior Executive Service. (Sec. 718) Requires the President to include in his annual budget submission in unclassified form the aggregate amounts appropriated during the current fiscal year and requested for the next fiscal year for all intelligence and intelligence-related activities of the U.S. Government. (Sec. 719) Repeals a provision that prohibits members of the Senate Intelligence Committee from serving continuously for more than eight years. Bars any Member from serving continuously as chairman or vice chairman of the select committee for more than six years. (Sec. 720) Requires the DCI to report to the Congress on the results of a review of the threats to the United States on protecting the national information infrastructure against information warfare and other non-traditional attacks and on the counterintelligence response of the DCI. Title VIII: National Imagery and Mapping Agency - Establishes the NIMA to: (1) provide timely, relevant, and accurate imagery, imagery intelligence, and imagery-related products and geospatial information in support of U.S. national security objectives; (2) support the imagery requirements of the Department of State and other non-DOD agencies; and (3) support the combat and other operational requirements of DOD. Provides for: (1) CIA support for NIMA; and (2) funds for foreign imagery intelligence and geospatial information support and for civil applications.
Bill· HRH.R. 3286 (104th)open
United States · United States Congress · 23 April 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Credit for Adoption Expenses Title II: Interethnic Adoption Title III: Child Custody Proceedings Affected by the Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 Title IV: Revenue Offsets Subtitle A: Exclusion for Energy Conservation Subsidies Limited to Subsidies With Respect to Dwelling Units Subtitle B: Foreign Trust Tax Compliance Adoption Promotion and Stability Act of 1996 - Title I: Credit for Adoption Expenses - Amends the Internal Revenue to allow for a limited adoption credit of up to $5,000. Excludes from an employee's gross income up to $5,000 of amounts paid by the employer for adoption expenses. Prohibits a double benefit. Title II: Interethnic Adoption - Amends title IV (Grants to States for Aid and Services to Needy Families with Children and for Child-Welfare Services) of the Social Security Act to prohibit any State or entity receiving Federal adoption or foster care assistance from limiting an adoption because of race, color, or national origin. Title III: Child Custody Proceedings Affected by the Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 - Amends the Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 to make title I of such Act inapplicable to any child custody proceeding involving a child who does not reside or is not domiciled within a reservation unless: (1) at least one of the child's biological parents is of Indian descent; and (2) at least one of the child's parents maintains a significant social, cultural, or political affiliation with the tribe of which either parent is a member. Title IV: Revenue Offsets - Subtitle A: Exclusion for Energy Conservation Subsidies Limited to Subsidies with Respect to Dwelling Units - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to limit to dwelling units the exclusion from gross income of any energy conservation subsidy provided by a public utility. Subtitle B: Foreign Trust Tax Compliance - Revises the requirements regarding information that must be reported regarding certain foreign trusts. Modifies the circumstances (with regard to foreign trusts having one or more U.S. beneficiaries) in which a transferor is treated as the owner. Replaces provisions setting forth a special rule applicable to foreign grantors with provisions declaring that provisions relating to treating grantors and others as substantial owners shall apply only when that application results in an amount being currently taken into account in computing the income of a U.S. citizen or resident or a domestic corporation. Requires a United States person to report information regarding foreign gifts or bequests when the gifts' aggregate value during a taxable year exceeds $10,000. Modifies requirements regarding the interest charge on accumulation distributions from foreign trusts. Changes the circumstances in which an estate or trust is included in the definition of "United States person." Modifies the definition of "foreign estate or trust." Requires (for provisions relating to the imposition of a tax on transfers to avoid income tax) treating a trust which is not a foreign trust and which becomes a foreign trust as having transferred, immediately before becoming a foreign trust, all of its assets to a foreign trust.
Law· HRH.R. 3259 (104th)enacted
United States · United States Congress · 17 April 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Intelligence Activities Title II: Central Intelligence Retirement and Disability System Title III: General Provisions Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1997 - Title I: Intelligence Activities - Authorizes appropriations for the conduct of intelligence and intelligence-related activities of the: (1) Central Intelligence Agency; (2) Department of Defense; (3) Defense Intelligence Agency; (4) National Security Agency; (5) Departments of the Army, Navy, and Air Force; (6) Departments of State, the Treasury, and Energy; (7) Federal Bureau of Investigation; (8) Drug Enforcement Administration; (9) National Reconnaissance Office; and (10) Central Imagery Office. Specifies that the amounts authorized to be appropriated and the authorized personnel ceilings as of September 30, 1997, for such activities are those specified in the classified Schedule of Authorizations, which shall be made available to the Senate and House Appropriations Committees and the President. Allows the Director of Central Intelligence (DCI), with the approval of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, to authorize employment of civilian personnel in excess of the number authorized for FY 1997 when the DCI determines that such action is necessary to the performance of important intelligence functions, subject to specified limitations. Requires notification of the Senate and House Intelligence Committees whenever such authority is exercised. Authorizes appropriations for the Intelligence Community Management Account of the DCI for FY 1997. Authorizes 207 full-time personnel for the Community Management Staff of the DCI as of September 30, 1997. Provides for the reimbursement of any U.S. officer or employee, or member of the armed forces, who is detailed to such Staff. Title II: Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System - Authorizes appropriations for FY 1997 for the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System Fund. Title III: General Provisions - Permits appropriations authorized by this Act for salary, pay, retirement, and other benefits for Federal employees to be increased by such additional amounts as may be necessary for increases in such compensation or benefits authorized by law. Specifies that the authorization of appropriations by this Act shall not be deemed to constitute authority for the conduct of any intelligence activity which is not otherwise authorized by the Constitution or laws of the United States.
Bill· SS. 1678 (104th)open
United States · United States Congress · 16 April 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Abolishment of Department of Energy Title II: Energy Laboratories Subtitle A: National Defense Laboratories Subtitle B: Nondefense Energy Laboratories Title III: Power Marketing Administrations Title IV: Transfer and Disposal of Reserves Subtitle A: Strategic Petroleum Reserve Subtitle B: Naval Petroleum Reserves Title V: National Security and Environmental Management Programs Title VI: Environmental Restoration Activities at Defense Nuclear Facilities Title VII: Civilian Radioactive Waste Management Title VIII: Miscellaneous Provisions Department of Energy Abolishment Act - Title I: Abolishment of Department of Energy - Redesignates the Department of Energy (DOE) as the Energy Programs Resolution Agency (the Agency), headed by an Administrator to perform the previous functions of the Department of Energy. Provides for the continuation of service of the Secretary of Energy as the interim Administrator. (Sec. 105) Authorizes the Administrator to establish, consolidate, alter, or discontinue in the Energy Programs Resolution Agency any organizational entities that were entities of DOE. Sunsets the Agency three years after enactment of this Act. (Sec. 107) Amends the Department of Energy Organization Act to restore the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) as an independent agency. (Sec. 108) Transfers to the Secretary of the Interior all functions of: (1) the Administrator of the Energy Information Administration; (2) certain DOE civilian energy research programs; and (3) specified DOE science and technology programs. (Sec. 109) Transfers all functions of the Administrator of the Energy Regulatory Administration to the Attorney General. (Sec. 110) Directs the Comptroller General to report to the Congress on the most efficient way to accomplish the complete abolishment of DOE and the transfer or termination of its functions. Title II: Energy Laboratories - Subtitle A: National Defense Laboratories - Transfers the functions of the Lawrence Livermore, Los Alamos, and Sandia National Laboratories to the Under Secretary of Defense for Nuclear Programs (established by title V). Subtitle B: Nondefense Energy Laboratories - Transfers to the National Science Foundation all functions of the Secretary of Energy relating to nondefense energy laboratories. (Sec. 213) Establishes the Nondefense Energy Laboratory Commission as an independent body to recommend to the Congress disposition options (reconfiguration, privatization, closure, or transfer) for nondefense energy laboratories, programs, or any of the basic science programs. Authorizes appropriations. Prescribes procedural guidelines for fast track congressional consideration of the Commission's report. (Sec. 216) Sets deadlines for closure of all nondefense energy laboratories and basic science programs unless the Congress has approved other specified dispositions. (Sec. 218) Establishes the Energy Laboratory Facility Closure Account to fund implementation of disposition actions. Title III: Power Marketing Administrations - Transfers to the Secretary of the Army (acting through the Chief of Engineers of the Army Corps of Engineers) all functions of the Administrators of: (1) the Bonneville Power Administration; (2) the Southeastern Power Administration; (3) the Southwestern Power Administration; and (4) the Western Area Power Administration. (Sec. 303) Directs the Comptroller General to study and report to the Congress on: (1) specified aspects of such power administrations; and (2) recommended final disposition alternatives. Expresses the intent of the Congress that: (1) any purchaser of facilities shall be required to maintain any contracts with customers in force as of the effective date; and (2) any sales of such facilities be executed so as to minimize the impact on the ultimate ratepayers. Title IV: Transfer and Disposal of Reserves - Subtitle A: Strategic Petroleum Reserve - Transfers to the Secretary of Defense all functions performed by the Secretary of Energy regarding the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, including the Industrial Petroleum Reserve, the Early Storage Reserve, and the Regional Petroleum Reserve. Instructs the Secretary of Defense to submit to the Congress a plan for the disposal of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve within a specified timeframe, including a plan for disposal of the reserves held at Weeks Island, Louisiana. Subtitle B: Naval Petroleum Reserves - Transfers to the Administrator of the Energy Programs Resolution Agency all functions performed with respect to the naval petroleum reserves, except Naval Petroleum Reserve Numbered 1 (Elk Hills). Instructs the Administrator to develop a joint plan with the Secretaries of the Interior and of the Army for disposal of the naval petroleum reserves within a specified timeframe. Title V: National Security and Environmental Management Programs - Establishes the Defense Nuclear Programs Agency (the Agency) in the Department of Defense (DOD), headed by an Under Secretary for Defense Nuclear Programs. (Sec. 502) Identifies the Under Secretary as the Staff Director of the Nuclear Weapons Council. (Sec. 503) Transfers to the Under Secretary all national security supervisory functions previously performed by: (1) DOE over defense, nonproliferation, and defense-related environmental management programs, and the Sandia, Los Alamos, and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratories; (2) the Defense Nuclear Agency of DOD relating to nuclear weapons systems; and (3) the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board. Authorizes the Secretary of Defense to transfer other nuclear weapons-related functions to the Under Secretary. (Sec. 504) Places restrictions upon the transfer of funds by the Agency. Title VI: Environmental Restoration Activities at Defense Nuclear Facilities - Amends the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 to require the Under Secretary to review ongoing and planned remediation activities for consistency with such Act. (Sec. 601) Sets forth guidelines for site-specific risk assessment and an analysis of risk reduction benefits and costs, which shall be conducted before the selection of a remedial action at a defense nuclear facility. (Sec. 603) Instructs the Under Secretary to renegotiate the terms of any compliance agreement entered into with the Secretary of Energy, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the relevant State in order to have it reflect this Act. Title VII: Civilian Radioactive Waste Management - Amends the Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982 to terminate the Office of Civilian Radioactive Waste Management and transfer its authority and assets to the Army Corps of Engineers (the Corps). Requires the Corps to assume all obligations of the Office affecting the Yucca Mountain site, and reissuance of Nevada State permits for the Corps. Prescribes procedural guidelines for Corps preparation and implementation of a Yucca Mountain site characterization plan. (Sec. 702) Amends the Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982 to reaffirm that the obligation of the Secretary of Energy to accept high-level radioactive waste and spent nuclear fuel beginning by January 31, 1998, is absolute and is not dependent on commencement of operation of a repository or a monitored retrievable storage facility. States that such obligation shall be neither voided nor delayed for any reason. Repeals: (1) the site selection limitation placed upon the siting of a monitored retrievable storage facility; and (2) the licensing conditions placed upon such facility. (Sec. 703) Prescribes procedural guidelines for the licensing and expansion of an initial uranium storage facility. Title VIII: Miscellaneous Provisions - Sets forth miscellaneous implementing provisions, conferring upon the Office of Management and Budget authority to make any determination regarding functions transferred under this Act and incidental transfers.
Bill· SS. 1673 (104th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 16 April 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Procurement Subtitle A: Authorization of Appropriations Subtitle B: Other Matters Title II: Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation Title III: Operation and Maintenance Subtitle A: Authorization of Appropriations Subtitle B: Other Matters Title IV: Military Personnel Authorizations Subtitle A: Active Forces Subtitle B: Reserve Forces Title V: Military Personnel Policy Subtitle A: Matters Relating to Reserve Components Subtitle B: Officer Education Programs Subtitle C: Other Matters Title VI: Compensation and Other Personnel Benefits Subtitle A: Pay and Allowances Subtitle B: Extension of Bonus and Incentive Pays Subtitle C: Travel and Transportation Allowances Subtitle D: Retired Pay, Survivor Benefits, and Related Matters Subtitle E: Other Matters Title VII: Health Care Provisions Title VIII: Acquisition and Related Matters Title IX: Organization and Management Subtitle A: General Matters Subtitle B: Financial Management Title X: General Provisions Subtitle A: Financial Matters Subtitle B: Civilian Personnel Subtitle C: Reporting Requirements Subtitle D: Matters Relating to Other Nations Subtitle E: Other Matters Title XXI(sic): Army Title XXII: Navy Title XXIII: Air Force Title XXIV: Defense Agencies Title XXV: North Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment Program Title XXVI: Guard and Reserve Forces Facilities Title XXVII: Expiration and Extension of Authorizations Title XXVIII: General Provisions Subtitle A: Military Construction Program and Military Family Housing Changes Subtitle B: Base Closure and Realignment and Environment Subtitle C: Land Conveyance Subtitle D: Other Matters National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1997 - Title I: Procurement - Subtitle A: Authorization of Appropriations - Authorizes appropriations for FY 1997 for procurement to the Army, Navy and Marine Corps, and Air Force for aircraft, missiles, weapons and tracked combat vehicles, ammunition, shipbuilding and conversion, and other procurement. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1997 for: (1) defense-wide procurement; (2) the Defense Inspector General; (3) the Defense Health Program; and (4) the chemical demilitarization program. Subtitle B: Other Matters - States that a current prohibition under a prior defense authorization Act against the new production of F-15E aircraft shall not apply to the obligation of funds authorized and appropriated for FY 1996 or to any appropriation or authorization for the Department of Defense (DOD) for FY 1997. (Sec. 111) Increases the research and development and total procurement thresholds for a system to be considered a "major system" for DOD procurement purposes. Authorizes the Secretary of Defense (Secretary) to adjust such amounts on the basis of DOD escalation rates, after notifying the Senate Armed Services and House National Security Committees. (Sec. 112) Amends the Defense Conversion, Reinvestment, and Transition Assistance Act of 1992 to require the Secretary, within 60 days after the enactment of an Act appropriating funds for DOD military functions, to: (1) identify which defense contracts under major defense programs will be terminated or substantially reduced as a result of reduced funding levels; and (2) ensure that notice of such termination or reduction is provided to each prime contractor under the contract, as well as to the Secretary of Labor. Requires subcontractors to be notified within 60 days after notification of the Secretary of Labor. Requires a contractor to notify affected employees within two weeks after receiving such notice. (Sec. 113) Strikes certain information concerning the completion status of major defense acquisition programs from information required to be contained in Selected Acquisition Reports for such programs. Requires such Reports to include procurement unit cost (currently, program acquisition unit cost). Title II: Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation - Authorizes appropriations for FY 1997 for the armed forces for research, development, test, and evaluation. (Sec. 202) Authorizes the Secretary to waive the live-fire survivability testing requirements with respect to V-22 aircraft. Provides for an alternative live-fire test program. Provides funding. (Sec. 203) Authorizes such live-fire test waiver with respect to the F-22 aircraft, requiring an alternative live-fire test program if the Secretary certifies that normal testing would be unreasonably expensive and impractical. Provides funding. (Sec. 204) Authorizes the Director of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency to conduct basic and applied research and advanced technology development on chemical and biological warfare defense technologies and systems, independent of any other DOD component. Title III: Operation and Maintenance - Subtitle A: Authorization of Appropriations - Authorizes appropriations for FY 1997 for operation and maintenance for the armed forces and specified activities and agencies of DOD. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1997 to DOD for working capital and revolving funds. Subtitle B: Other Matters - Provides additional remedies for employees of defense contractors who disclose information regarding a substantial violation of law (whistle blowers). (Sec. 311) Repeals the requirement of a physical examination for members of the National Guard called into Federal service. (Sec. 312) Authorizes DOD to utilize military personnel under current agreements for the training of Federal employees in non-Government facilities and to pay in advance for such training. (Sec. 313) Directs the Secretary to prescribe regulations for the sale of emission reduction credits or other incentives authorized under the Clean Air Act. (Sec. 314) Defines "capital assets" for purposes of assets in the Defense Business Operations Fund as those having a development or acquisition cost of not less than $100,000 (currently, $50,000). Title IV: Military Personnel Authorizations - Subtitle A: Active Forces - Sets forth the authorized end strengths for active-duty forces as of the end of FY 1997. (Sec. 402) Excludes from active-duty end strength limits those members of the reserve serving on active duty for 181 days or more to perform special work in support of peacetime requirements of the active components and combatant commands. Subtitle B: Reserve Forces - Sets forth the authorized end strengths as of the end of FY 1997 for members of the Selected Reserve and reserve personnel on active duty in support of the reserves. Title V: Military Personnel Policy - Subtitle A: Matters Relating to Reserve Components - Provides that reserve officers in an inactive status who are required to be removed from such status: (1) shall be transferred to the Retired Reserve; or (2) may be discharged from their appointment. (Sec. 502) Provides an exception from the requirement of a baccalaureate degree for appointment to a grade above O-2 in the Naval Reserve in the case of persons appointed for service under either the Naval Aviation Cadet (current law) or Seaman to Admiral Program. (Sec. 503) Authorizes the Secretary to carry out in the United States a test program under which those reserve members eligible for commissary use will be permitted to use such stores on the same basis as members on active duty. Requires the Secretary to report test program results to the Congress. (Sec. 504) Provides an exception from the prohibition against the involuntary release or discharge of reserve personnel within two years of eligibility for retirement in the case of members who serve on active duty (other than for training) for a period of less than 180 days, as long as such member is informed of and consents to such exception prior to commencing such active duty. (Sec. 505) Requires an individual to have received his or her baccalaureate degree within eight (currently, three) years of appointment to a reserve officer position in order to meet the Selected Reserve officer education requirement. (Sec. 507) Increases the authorized activities of members of the reserve called to active duty for the purpose of organizing, administering, recruiting, instructing, or training the reserve components. Subtitle B: Officer Education Programs - Extends from under 25 to under 27 years old the age limit for initial appointment as a cadet or midshipman in the Senior Reserve Officers' Training Corps and the military service academies. (Sec. 511) Authorizes the Secretary of the military department concerned to provide financial assistance to a student enrolled in an advanced educational program beyond the baccalaureate degree level, as long as such student is also a cadet or midshipman in an advanced training program. Subtitle C: Other Matters - Reduces from three to two years the minimum time in grade required before a chief warrant officer may be considered for promotion. Authorizes warrant officers below the promotion zone to be selected for promotion to the grade of chief warrant officer, W-3. (Sec. 517) Repeals Federal provisions allowing for judicial review of a determination of death of a person previously in a missing status during service in the armed forces, as well as special interest cases eligible for review. Requires the Secretary of the military department concerned (currently, the theater component commander) to transmit within ten days (currently, 48 hours) after a preliminary status assessment a recommendation that a person be placed in a missing status. Requires the Secretary concerned to perform all duties currently required of the theater component commander with respect to such persons and their status. Repeals: (1) the requirement of appointment of counsel to represent a missing person during an inquiry into the status of such person; (2) the requirement that subsequent reviews of a person's status as missing occur at least every three years (instead requiring such review upon receipt of information that may result in a change of status); (3) a provision providing civil and criminal penalties for the wrongful withholding of information concerning a person's status; (4) the requirement that certain information be submitted by a board of inquiry making a recommendation that a missing person be declared dead; and (5) the inclusion of DOD civilian and defense contractor employees as covered persons under such provisions. (Sec. 518) Makes permanent (currently ends September 30, 1996) the authority for the temporary promotion of certain Navy lieutenants. Authorizes the Secretary, when considered expeditious, to extend for up to 180 days beyond the current limit of 365 days after enlistment in a reserve component the active-duty entry date under the delayed entry program. (Sec. 520) Authorizes the Secretary concerned to accept reenlistments of active-duty personnel in the armed forces or Coast Guard: (1) for at least two but no more than six years in the case of members with less than ten years of service; and (2) for an indefinite additional period in the case of members with ten or more years of service. (Sec. 521) Authorizes the Secretary to enter into agreements with the governments of allied and other friendly nations for the exchange of military and civilian defense personnel. Title VI: Compensation and Other Personnel Benefits - Subtitle A: Pay and Allowances - Waives any FY 1997 military pay increases tied to increases in the General Schedule of Compensation for Government employees. Increases by 3.0 percent, effective on January 1, 1997, the rates of basic pay, basic allowance for subsistence, and basic allowance for quarters (BAQ). (Sec. 602) Prohibits the payment of a BAQ to a member of the Ready Reserve who is serving on active duty for 15 days or less and provided government quarters, unless such member is accompanied by his or her dependents. (Sec. 603) Authorizes the Secretary concerned to pay a BAQ for a member who is without dependents, serving in pay grade E-5, and assigned to sea duty. Authorizes the payment of a BAQ to two members in pay grades below E-6 who are married to each other without dependents and simultaneously assigned to sea duty on ships. (Sec. 604) Repeals a provision which requires the rate of monthly cadet or midshipman pay to be adjusted in the same manner and time as the adjustment of pay to military personnel in connection with General Schedule increases. Subtitle B: Extension of Bonus and Incentive Pays - Extends through FY 1999 specified authorities currently scheduled to expire at the end of FY 1997 with respect to certain special pay and bonus programs within the regular and reserve armed forces. Subtitle C: Travel and Transportation Allowances - Allows, as part of the transportation allowance for the transport of a motor vehicle in connection with a permanent change of duty station, a monetary allowance to be paid for: (1) return travel to the old duty station; or (2) travel from the new duty station to the port of debarkation to pick up the vehicle. (Sec. 611) Authorizes the Secretary to reimburse board members of the DOD domestic dependent school system for travel and transportation expenses which include program and activity fees, when the Secretary determines that such programs and activities are reasonable and necessary for the performance of school board duties. (Sec. 612) Provides that, when a member of the armed forces is ordered to a foreign country and the laws of such country prohibit or restrict the entry of a motor vehicle, such member may elect to receive paid storage of such vehicle in lieu of the normal transportation allowance for such vehicle. (Sec. 613) Repeals a Federal provision prohibiting the payment of lodging expenses of a DOD civilian employee on official business away from home when adequate Government quarters are available. Subtitle D: Retired Pay, Survivor Benefits, and Related Matters - Makes March 1996 the effective date of an increase in military retired pay which became effective on December 1, 1995. Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1996 to repeal a provision which provides a contingent alternative effective date for the military pay increase for FY 1998. (Sec. 616) States that the dependents of members of the Selected Reserve, like the members themselves, shall be permitted the use of certain morale, welfare, and recreation facilities of DOD on the same basis as members on active duty. Makes an identical allowance for dependents of members of the armed forces who would otherwise be eligible for military retired pay but for the fact that they are under 60 years of age. (Sec. 617) Repeals a Federal provision authorizing survivors of military personnel who die as a result of injury or illness incurred while serving on active duty in support of a contingency operation to receive a payment of all leave accrued. Subtitle E: Other Matters - Authorizes the payment of retirement benefits, eligibility for placement on the temporary disability retirement list, or eligibility for separation with severance pay for active-duty personnel who are: (1) not entitled to basic pay due to participation in an educational program; and (2) unfit to perform their duties because of a disability incurred while participating in such program. (Sec. 621) Amends Federal provisions concerning the payment of military retired or retainer pay to survivors and dependents of military personnel to: (1) include facsimile or other electronic transmission as a valid service of process; (2) require a finding of proper jurisdiction before a court of one state can modify or alter an original court order from another state; and (3) provide that the effective date of the termination of retirement benefits for a person who has been sentenced by a court-martial shall be the date of discharge from the uniformed services. (Sec. 622) Requires (current law authorizes) the Secretary, and the Secretary of Transportation with respect to the Coast Guard, to establish a program which assists eligible former military and Coast Guard personnel to obtain certification and licensure as elementary and secondary school teachers (known as the troops-to-teachers program). Reduces from five to two school years the period a former member must be employed as such a teacher after receiving such assistance. Reduces the amount required to be paid to the educational agency involved by the Secretary concerned representing a portion of the teacher salary. Makes similar changes with respect to current teacher placement programs for eligible separated civilian DOD employees and displaced DOD contractor employees. (Sec. 623) Allows a member whose travel to a new duty station is delayed by participation in a critical operational mission to defer such travel (for which a travel or transportation allowance is authorized) for up to one year after assignment to such mission. (Sec. 624) Authorizes the Secretary to pay to civilian DOD personnel performing overseas duty the same allowances and benefits authorized for members of the Foreign Service under the Foreign Service Act of 1980. Title VII: Health Care Provisions - Amends the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Uniformed Services (CHAMPUS) to authorize the Secretary to pay amounts for covered services which are higher than prescribed limits when enrollees in managed care programs obtain covered services (currently, covered emergency services) from nonparticipating providers. (Sec. 702) Amends Federal provisions establishing the Armed Forces Health Professions Scholarship and Financial Assistance Program to provide alternative service obligations (currently, the only authorized alternative is assignment to health professional shortage areas) for Program participants relieved of their active duty service obligation under the Program. Provides some of the alternative obligations for students participating in a similar program at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences. (Sec. 703) Excludes officers assigned to duty in DOD from the limitation on the maximum number of commissioned officers of the Public Health Service authorized to serve on active duty. (Sec. 704) Repeals statutory restrictions on the use of DOD funds or facilities to perform abortions. (Sec. 705) Provides CHAMPUS medical and dental care benefits for reserve personnel who incur or aggravate an injury, illness, or disease: (1) in the line of duty while performing active duty, active or inactive duty training, or full-time National Guard duty; (2) while traveling to or from such duty or training; or (3) in the line of duty while remaining overnight, between successive periods of inactive duty training, in a site beyond reasonable commuting distance from the member's residence. Authorizes the following for members described under (3), above: (1) the recovery, care, and disposition of remains; (2) eligibility for retirement pay upon separation due to disability after 30 days or less of active-duty service; (3) entitlement to basic pay; and (4) compensation for inactive-duty training. Title VIII: Acquisition and Related Matters - Repeals the defense procurement technical assistance cooperative agreement program. (Sec. 802) Authorizes the requisitioning and use of Government vehicles for the training and administration of the National Guard by the States, Territories, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia. (Sec. 803) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act: (1) for Fiscal Year 1991 to extend through FY 1998 the pilot Mentor-Protege Program; and (2) for Fiscal Year 1994 to extend through FY 1999 the authority of the Director of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency to carry out prototype activities directly relevant to weapons or weapon systems proposed to be acquired or developed by DOD. Authorizes the Secretary to conduct a follow-on acquisition of any prototype or technology demonstrator developed in connection with such activities. (Sec. 805) Amends Federal provisions concerning the authority of the Secretary and the military department Secretaries to enter into transactions in order to carry out basic, applied, and advanced research projects to: (1) repeal a reporting requirement; and (2) state that certain proposals, business plans, or technical information submitted in anticipation of such projects will not be considered "agency records" for five years (and therefore will be considered confidential as proprietary data). (Sec. 806) Provides that any subdivision of appropriations made in this Act and hereafter under the heading "Shipbuilding and Conversion, Navy" shall be considered to be for the same purpose as any subdivision under such heading in any prior year. (Sec. 807) Directs the Secretary to rely on the private sector for commercial or industrial type supplies and services for or beneficial to the accomplishment of authorized DOD functions, except when the Secretary determines that the function should be performed by government personnel. Empowers the Secretary to contract with private or non-government entities for the provision of such functions. Title IX: Organization and Management - Subtitle A: General Matters - Redesignates the North American Air Defense Command as the United States Element, North American Aerospace Defense Command. (Sec. 902) Authorizes civilian DOD employees to be included on ammunition storage boards. (Sec. 903) Amends the Foreign Trade Zones Act to remove the Secretary of the Army from membership on the Foreign Trade Zone Board. Subtitle B: Financial Management - Establishes in DOD and each of the military departments an Environmental Restoration Account. (Currently, there is established in DOD only the Defense Environmental Restoration Account.) (Sec. 911) Authorizes up to $2 million of DOD funds annually to be used for small meals and snacks during specified military recruiting functions. Title X: General Provisions - Subtitle A: Financial Matters - Repeals the requirement that amounts requested for the procurement of reserve equipment be set forth in a separate budget request. (Sec. 1002) Authorizes the Secretary to accept services as contributions for defense programs, projects, and activities. Directs the Secretary to establish written rules to be used as criteria for the acceptance of money, real or personal property, or services for such programs, projects, and activities. (Sec. 1003) Amends the Sikes Act to authorize the transfer to another military reservation (installation) of the wildlife conservation fees of a closed military reservation. (Sec. 1004) Authorizes a disbursing official to cash checks and other negotiable instruments and exchange U.S. currency on behalf of the United States at a U.S.-chartered Federal credit institution operating at DOD invitation in a foreign country where contractor-operated military banking facilities are not available. (Sec. 1005) Amends the Defense Authorization Amendments and Base Closure and Realignment Act and the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Act of 1990 (base closure laws) to provide for the disposition of funds arising from the disposal of real property or facilities acquired, constructed, or improved with commissary store or nonappropriated funds in connection with the closure or realignment of a military installation under a base closure law. Subtitle B: Civilian Personnel - Authorizes the Secretary to employ necessary civilian faculty personnel at the: (1) English Language Center of the Defense Language Institute; and (2) Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies. (Sec. 1012) Excepts from the competitive service non-attorney positions established in a judge's chambers of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces. (Sec. 1013) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1996 to repeal a provision which requires the Secretary to convert at least 10,000 military positions to civilian positions by the end of FY 1997. Subtitle C: Reporting Requirements - Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Years 1990 and 1991 to strike certain information currently required in an annual report concerning the ballistic missile defense program. (Sec. 1022) Repeals a requirement for an annual report from the Secretary to the Congress on defense contractor reimbursement costs. (Sec. 1023) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1991 to repeal provisions requiring certain notification to parties substantially or seriously affected by military budget reductions, the closure or realignment of military installations, or the cancellation or curtailment of major defense contracts. Subtitle D: Matters Relating to Other Nations - Includes within the provision of international demining activities the payment of travel and subsistence expenses of persons participating in such program and the costs of equipment, supplies, and services acquired to carry out such program. Subtitle E: Other Matters - Repeals the requirement that the National Defense Technology and Industrial Base Council (Council) prepare specified periodic assessments and plans. Directs the Secretary to establish a program for analysis of national technology and industrial base (NTIB) issues, policies, and programs. Repeals specified provisions concerning administration, contracting, coordination and supervision with regard to such program. Directs the Secretary (currently, the Council) to prepare annually through FY 1998 (currently, 1997) selected assessments of the NTIB in attaining national security requirements. Outlines assessment requirements, requiring its integration with DOD's overall budget, acquisition, and logistics decision-making processes. Directs the Secretary to prescribe departmental guidance appropriate to implement the national security objectives of the President. Requires a report from the Secretary to the Congress concerning such guidance. Directs the Secretary to report to the Congress in 1997 and 1998 on such guidance and the addressing of technological and industrial concerns. Repeals a provision requiring the Secretary to coordinate the encouragement of technology transfer program with the Council. Empowers the Secretary (currently, the Council) to appoint members for the Military-Civilian Integration and Technology Transfer Advisory Board, as well as related authority. Repeals the requirement that the National Defense Manufacturing Technology Program be coordinated with the NTIB. (Sec. 1031) Amends the Defense Authorization Amendments and Base Closure and Realignment Act of 1988 to authorize the Secretary to transfer real property located at military installations to be closed to a military department or other entity within DOD or the Coast Guard. (Sec. 1032) Authorizes the Secretary of the Air Force to dispose of all U.S. rights and interest to the primate research complex at Holloman Air Force Base, as well as the colony of chimpanzees housed at or managed from the complex. (Sec. 1033) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act: (1) for Fiscal Year 1993 to require the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Research, Development, and Acquisition (currently, for Installations, Logistics and Environment) to participate in functions and meetings of State chemical demilitarization citizens advisory commissions; and (2) for Fiscal Years 1990 and 1991 to repeal a provision which terminates at the end of FY 1997 the authority of the Secretary to transfer excess personal property to Federal and State agencies. (Sec. 1035) Authorizes Reserve and Coast Guard judge advocates and law specialists (currently, only active-duty members of such professions) to act as notaries public. (Sec. 1036) Transfers to the Secretary (currently, the Secretaries of the Army and Air Force) the authority to control U.S. transportation systems in time of war. (Sec. 1037) States that statute-of-limitations provisions of the Soldiers' and Sailors' Civil Relief Act shall not toll the period prescribed for the filing of a request for the correction of military records. Directs the corrections board involved to consider the claimant's military service and the effect of such service on the claimant's ability to file within the authorized time period (two years after discovery of the error). (Sec. 1038) Redesignates the: (1) Naval Records and History Gift Fund as the Naval Historical Center Fund; and (2) Office of Naval Records and History as the Naval Historical Center. (Sec. 1039) Authorizes the Secretary to accept pecuniary or service contributions from foreign nations on behalf of the George C. Marshall European Center for Security Studies. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) authorize participation in Center programs of European or Eurasian nations, when in the national interest; and (2) waive financial disclosure requirements for dignitaries invited to serve without compensation on the Marshall Center Board of Visitors. (Sec. 1040) Directs the Secretary of the Interior to transfer to the Secretary of the Army the Arlington National Cemetery Interment Zone as well as specified lands within the Robert E. Lee Memorial Preservation Zone. (Sec. 1041) Repeals a Federal provision directing the Secretary to authorize commissary and exchange officials to negotiate directly with private carriers for the most cost-effective transportation of commissary and exchange supplies by sea without relying on the Military Sealift Command or the Military Traffic Management Command. (Sec. 1042) Authorizes the Secretary or the Secretary of a military department to enter into cooperative agreements for the preservation, management, maintenance, research, and improvement of cultural resources on military installations. (Sec. 1043) Authorizes the President to award the Medal of Honor to certain named individuals for extraordinary service in the Army during World War II. (Sec. 1044) Revises generally provisions authorizing the Secretary to lend material, supplies, and personnel services to the Inaugural Committee. (Sec. 1045) Withdraws specified Federal lands in Imperial County, California, utilized in the mission of the Naval Air Facility, El Centro, California, from all forms of appropriation under the public land and mining laws, but not the mineral, geothermal leasing, or mineral materials sales laws. Reserves such withdrawn lands for use by the Secretary of the Navy for defense-related purposes in accordance with the Cooperative Agreement of June 29, 1987, among the Bureau of Land Management, the Bureau of Reclamation, and the Department of the Navy. Provides for management of the withdrawn lands by the Secretary of the Interior pursuant to the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976. Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) permitted management activities; (2) management by the Secretary of the Navy for military operations, public safety, or national security purposes; (3) a land withdrawal and reserve duration limit of 25 years (with authorized extensions after certain notice and filing requirements); (4) early relinquishment of the land withdrawal and reservation; and (5) land decontamination and environmental remediation (including authorized alternatives). Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1997 - Title XXI(sic): Army - Authorizes the Secretary of the Army to acquire real property and carry out military construction projects in specified amounts at specified installations and locations. Authorizes the Secretary to construct or acquire family housing units, to carry out architectural planning and design activities, and to improve existing military family housing in specified amounts. Authorizes appropriations to the Army for fiscal years after 1996 for military construction, land acquisition, and military family housing functions of the Army. Limits the total cost of construction projects authorized by this title. Title XXII: Navy - Provides, with respect to the Navy, authorizations paralleling those provided for the Army. Title XXIII: Air Force - Provides, with respect to the Air Force, authorizations paralleling those provided for the Army. Title XXIV: Defense Agencies - Authorizes the Secretary to acquire real property and carry out military construction projects in specified amounts at specified installations and locations. Authorizes the Secretary to carry out architectural planning and design activities and to improve existing military family housing units, in specified amounts. (Sec. 2404) Earmarks funds authorized under this title for the Department of Defense Family Housing Improvement Fund for appropriate uses. (Sec. 2405) Authorizes the Secretary to carry out certain energy conservation projects. (Sec. 2406) Authorizes appropriations to DOD for fiscal years after 1996 for military construction, land acquisition, and military family housing functions of DOD. Limits the total cost of construction projects authorized by this title. Title XXV: North Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment Program - Authorizes the Secretary to make contributions for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Security Investment Program and authorizes appropriations for fiscal years after 1996 for such contributions. Title XXVI: Guard and Reserve Forces Facilities - Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years after 1996 for the Guard and Reserve forces for acquisition, architectural and engineering services, and construction of facilities. (Sec. 2602) Authorizes specified Army National Guard military construction projects and architectural and engineering services and construction design, using prior year appropriations. Title XXVII: Expiration and Extension of Authorizations - Terminates all authorizations contained in the titles XXI through XXVI of this Act on October 1, 1999, or the date of enactment of an Act authorizing funds for military construction for FY 2000, whichever is later, with exceptions. Extends certain prior-year military construction projects. Title XXVIII: General Provisions - Subtitle A: Military Construction Program and Military Family Housing Changes - Increases: (1) from $300,000 to $350,000 the active and reserve component minor construction threshold for a project the Secretary may carry out using operation and maintenance funds without prior approval from the appropriate congressional committees; and (2) from $400,000 to $1.5 million the reserve component minor construction project threshold beyond which congressional notification and a 21-day waiting period are required. (Sec. 2802) Includes major maintenance and the repair of drives within the definition of an "improvement" for purposes of authorized improvements to military family housing. Subtitle B: Base Closure and Realignment and Environment - Amends the base closure laws to authorize the Secretary to contract with local governments for the provision of certain community services at facilities on installations closed pursuant to such laws. (Sec. 2806) Authorizes the Secretary to pay from the Department of Defense Base Closure Account (Part II) up to $50,000 for stipulated environmental damages assessed against Loring Air Force Base, Maine. Subtitle C: Land Conveyance - Authorizes the Secretary of the Army to convey to: (1) Richmond or Madison County, Kentucky, a specified sewage collection, treatment, and disposal system at Blue Grass Army Depot, Kentucky; (2) the Dublin San Ramon Services District, California, a specified water treatment and distribution system at Camp Parks, California; (3) Leavenworth, Kansas, a specified water treatment and distribution system at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas; (4) Pierce County, Washington, a specified sewage collection, treatment, and disposal system at Fort Lewis, Washington; (5) Odenton, Maryland, a specified water treatment and distribution system at Fort Meade, Maryland; (6) Monmouth County, New Jersey, a specified water treatment and distribution system at Fort Monmouth, New Jersey; and (7) Hinesville, Georgia, a specified sewage collection, treatment, and disposal system at the Hunter Army Air Field, Fort Stewart, Georgia. (Sec. 2814) Authorizes the Secretary of the military department concerned to grant an easement for rights-of-way for electric power or communication poles and lines. Subtitle D: Other Matters - Authorizes the Secretary of the Air Force to enter into an agreement with a local electric utility or private company to install, operate, and maintain a new electrical distribution system at Youngstown Air Reserve Station, Ohio. Provides agreement conditions. Provides funds for such system from funds authorized and appropriated for FY 1996.
Law· HRH.R. 3230 (104th)enacted
United States · United States Congress · 15 April 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Procurement Subtitle A: Authorization of Appropriations Subtitle B: Other Matters Title II: Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation Title III: Operation and Maintenance Subtitle A: Authorization of Appropriations Subtitle B: Other Matters Title IV: Military Personnel Authorizations Subtitle A: Active Forces Subtitle B: Reserve Forces Title V: Military Personnel Policy Subtitle A: Matters Relating to Reserve Components Subtitle B: Officer Education Programs Subtitle C: Other Matters Title VI: Compensation and Other Personnel Benefits Subtitle A: Pay and Allowances Subtitle B: Extension of Bonus and Incentive Pays Subtitle C: Travel and Transportation Allowances Subtitle D: Retired Pay, Survivor Benefits, and Related Matters Subtitle E: Other Matters Title VII: Health Care Provisions Title VIII: Acquisition and Related Matters Title IX: Organization and Management Subtitle A: General Matters Subtitle B: Financial Management Title X: General Provisions Subtitle A: Financial Matters Subtitle B: Civilian Personnel Subtitle C: Reporting Requirements Subtitle D: Matters Relating to Other Nations Subtitle E: Other Matters Title XXI(sic): Army Title XXII: Navy Title XXIII: Air Force Title XXIV: Defense Agencies Title XXV: North Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment Program Title XXVI: Guard and Reserve Forces Facilities Title XXVII: Expiration and Extension of Authorizations Title XXVIII: General Provisions Subtitle A: Military Construction Program and Military Family Housing Changes Subtitle B: Base Closure and Realignment and Environment Subtitle C: Land Conveyance Subtitle D: Other Matters National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1997 - Title I: Procurement - Subtitle A: Authorization of Appropriations - Authorizes appropriations for FY 1997 for procurement to the Army, Navy and Marine Corps, and Air Force for aircraft, missiles, weapons and tracked combat vehicles, ammunition, shipbuilding and conversion, and other procurement. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1997 for: (1) defense-wide procurement; (2) the Defense Inspector General; (3) the Defense Health Program; and (4) the chemical demilitarization program. Subtitle B: Other Matters - States that a current prohibition under a prior defense authorization Act against the new production of F-15E aircraft shall not apply to the obligation of funds authorized and appropriated for FY 1996 or to any appropriation or authorization for the Department of Defense (DOD) for FY 1997. (Sec. 111) Increases the research and development and total procurement thresholds for a system to be considered a "major system" for DOD procurement purposes. Authorizes the Secretary of Defense (Secretary) to adjust such amounts on the basis of DOD escalation rates, after notifying the Senate Armed Services and House National Security Committees. (Sec. 112) Strikes certain information concerning the completion status of major defense acquisition programs from information required to be contained in Selected Acquisition Reports for such programs. Requires such Reports to include procurement unit cost (currently, program acquisition unit cost). Title II: Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation - Authorizes appropriations for FY 1997 for the armed forces for research, development, test, and evaluation. (Sec. 202) Authorizes the Secretary to waive the live-fire survivability testing requirements with respect to V-22 aircraft. Provides for an alternative live-fire test program. Provides funding. (Sec. 203) Authorizes such live-fire test waiver with respect to the F-22 aircraft, requiring an alternative live-fire test program if the Secretary certifies that normal testing would be unreasonably expensive and impractical. Provides funding. (Sec. 204) Authorizes the Director of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency to conduct basic and applied research and advanced technology development on chemical and biological warfare defense technologies and systems, independent of any other DOD component. Title III: Operation and Maintenance - Subtitle A: Authorization of Appropriations - Authorizes appropriations for FY 1997 for operation and maintenance for the armed forces and specified activities and agencies of DOD. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1997 to DOD for working capital and revolving funds. Subtitle B: Other Matters - Provides additional remedies for employees of defense contractors who disclose information regarding a substantial violation of law (whistle blowers). (Sec. 311) Repeals the requirement of a physical examination for members of the National Guard called into Federal service. (Sec. 312) Defines "capital assets" for purposes of assets in the Defense Business Operations Fund as those having a development or acquisition cost of not less than $100,000 (currently, $50,000). Title IV: Military Personnel Authorizations - Subtitle A: Active Forces - Sets forth the authorized end strengths for active-duty forces as of the end of FY 1997. (Sec. 402) Excludes from active-duty end strength limits those members of the reserve serving on active duty for 181 days or more to perform special work in support of peacetime requirements of the active components and combatant commands. Subtitle B: Reserve Forces - Sets forth the authorized end strengths as of the end of FY 1997 for members of the Selected Reserve and reserve personnel on active duty in support of the reserves. Title V: Military Personnel Policy - Subtitle A: Matters Relating to Reserve Components - Provides that reserve officers in an inactive status who are required to be removed from such status: (1) shall be transferred to the Retired Reserve; or (2) may be discharged from their appointment. (Sec. 502) Provides an exception from the requirement of a baccalaureate degree for appointment to a grade above O-2 in the Naval Reserve in the case of persons appointed for service under either the Naval Aviation Cadet (current law) or Seaman to Admiral Program. (Sec. 503) Authorizes the Secretary to carry out in the United States a test program under which those reserve members eligible for commissary use will be permitted to use such stores on the same basis as members on active duty. Requires the Secretary to report test program results to the Congress. (Sec. 504) Provides an exception from the prohibition against the involuntary release or discharge of reserve personnel within two years of eligibility for retirement in the case of members who serve on active duty (other than for training) for a period of less than 180 days, as long as such member is informed of and consents to such exception prior to commencing such active duty. (Sec. 505) Requires an individual to have received his or her baccalaureate degree within eight (currently, three) years of appointment to a reserve officer position in order to meet the Selected Reserve officer education requirement. (Sec. 507) Increases the authorized activities of members of the reserve called to active duty for the purpose of organizing, administering, recruiting, instructing, or training the reserve components. Subtitle B: Officer Education Programs - Extends from under 25 to under 27 years old the age limit for initial appointment as a cadet or midshipman in the Senior Reserve Officers' Training Corps and the military service academies. (Sec. 511) Authorizes the Secretary of the military department concerned to provide financial assistance to a student enrolled in an advanced educational program beyond the baccalaureate degree level, as long as such student is also a cadet or midshipman in an advanced training program. Subtitle C: Other Matters - Reduces from three to two years the minimum time in grade required before a chief warrant officer may be considered for promotion. Authorizes warrant officers below the promotion zone to be selected for promotion to the grade of chief warrant officer, W-3. (Sec. 517) Repeals Federal provisions allowing for judicial review of a determination of death of a person previously in a missing status during service in the armed forces, as well as special interest cases eligible for review. Requires the Secretary of the military department concerned (currently, the theater component commander) to transmit within ten days (currently, 48 hours) after a preliminary status assessment a recommendation that a person be placed in a missing status. Requires the Secretary concerned to perform all duties currently required of the theater component commander with respect to such persons and their status. Repeals: (1) the requirement of appointment of counsel to represent a missing person during an inquiry into the status of such person; (2) the requirement that subsequent reviews of a person's status as missing occur at least every three years (instead requiring such review upon receipt of information that may result in a change of status of the missing person); (3) a provision providing civil and criminal penalties for the wrongful withholding of information concerning a person's status; (4) the requirement that certain information be submitted by a board of inquiry making a recommendation that a missing person be declared dead; and (5) the inclusion of DOD civilian and defense contractor employees as covered persons under such provisions. (Sec. 518) Makes permanent (currently ends September 30, 1996) the authority for the temporary promotion of certain Navy lieutenants. (Sec. 519) Authorizes the Secretary concerned, when considered expeditious, to extend for up to 180 days beyond the current limit of 365 days after enlistment in a reserve component the active-duty entry date under the delayed entry program. Title VI: Compensation and Other Personnel Benefits - Subtitle A: Pay and Allowances - Waives any FY 1997 military pay increases tied to increases in the General Schedule of Compensation for Government employees. Increases by 3.0 percent, effective on January 1, 1997, the rates of basic pay, basic allowance for subsistence, and basic allowance for quarters (BAQ). (Sec. 602) Prohibits the payment of a BAQ to a member of the Ready Reserve who is serving on active duty for 15 days or less and provided government quarters, unless such member is accompanied by his or her dependents. (Sec. 603) Authorizes the Secretary concerned to pay a BAQ for a member who is without dependents, serving in pay grade E-5, and assigned to sea duty. Authorizes the payment of a BAQ to two members in pay grades below E-6 who are married to each other without dependents and simultaneously assigned to sea duty on ships. (Sec. 604) Repeals a provision which requires the rate of monthly cadet or midshipman pay to be adjusted in the same manner and time as the adjustment of pay to military personnel in connection with General Schedule increases. Subtitle B: Extension of Bonus and Incentive Pays - Extends through FY 1999 specified authorities currently scheduled to expire at the end of FY 1997 with respect to certain special pay and bonus programs within the regular and reserve armed forces. Subtitle C: Travel and Transportation Allowances - Allows, as part of the transportation allowance for the transport of a motor vehicle in connection with a permanent change of duty station, a monetary allowance to be paid for: (1) return travel to the old duty station; or (2) travel from the new duty station to the port of debarkation to pick up the vehicle. (Sec. 611) Authorizes the Secretary to reimburse board members of the DOD domestic dependent school system for travel and transportation expenses which include program and activity fees, when the Secretary determines that such programs and activities are reasonable and necessary for the performance of school board duties. (Sec. 612) Provides that, when a member of the armed forces is ordered to a foreign country and the laws of such country prohibit or restrict the entry of a motor vehicle, such member may elect to receive paid storage of such vehicle in lieu of the normal transportation allowance for such vehicle. (Sec. 613) Repeals a Federal provision prohibiting the payment of lodging expenses of a DOD civilian employee on official business away from home when adequate Government quarters are available. Subtitle D: Retired Pay, Survivor Benefits, and Related Matters - Makes March 1996 the effective date of an increase in military retired pay which became effective on December 1, 1995. Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1996 to repeal a provision which provides a contingent alternative effective date for the military pay increase for FY 1998. (Sec. 616) States that the dependents of members of the Selected Reserve, like the members themselves, shall be permitted the use of certain morale, welfare, and recreation facilities of DOD on the same basis as members on active duty. Makes an identical allowance for dependents of members of the armed forces who would otherwise be eligible for military retired pay but for the fact that they are under 60 years of age. Subtitle E: Other Matters - Authorizes the payment of retirement benefits, eligibility for placement on the temporary disability retirement list, or eligibility for separation with severance pay for active-duty personnel who are: (1) not entitled to basic pay due to participation in an educational program; and (2) unfit to perform their duties because of a disability incurred while participating in such program. (Sec. 621) Amends Federal provisions concerning the payment of military retired or retainer pay to survivors and dependents of military personnel to: (1) include facsimile or other electronic transmission as a valid service of process; (2) require a finding of proper jurisdiction before a court of one state can modify or alter an original court order from another state; and (3) provide that the effective date of the termination of retirement benefits for a person who has been sentenced by a court-martial shall be the date of discharge from the uniformed services. (Sec. 622) Allows a member whose travel to a new duty station is delayed by participation in a critical operational mission to defer such travel (for which a travel or transportation allowance is authorized) for up to one year after assignment to such mission. Title VII: Health Care Provisions - Amends the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Uniformed Services (CHAMPUS) to authorize the Secretary to pay amounts for covered services which are higher than prescribed limits when enrollees in managed care programs obtain covered services (currently, covered emergency services) from nonparticipating providers. (Sec. 702) Repeals statutory restrictions on the use of DOD funds or facilities to perform abortions. (Sec. 703) Provides CHAMPUS medical and dental care benefits for reserve personnel who incur or aggravate an injury, illness, or disease: (1) in the line of duty while performing active duty, active or inactive duty training, or full-time National Guard duty; (2) while traveling to or from such duty or training; or (3) in the line of duty while remaining overnight, between successive periods of inactive duty training, in a site beyond reasonable commuting distance from the member's residence. Authorizes the following for members described under (3), above: (1) the recovery, care, and disposition of remains; (2) eligibility for retirement pay upon separation due to disability after 30 days or less of active-duty service; (3) entitlement to basic pay; and (4) compensation for inactive-duty training. Title VIII: Acquisition and Related Matters - Repeals the defense procurement technical assistance cooperative agreement program. (Sec. 802) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act: (1) for Fiscal Year 1991 to extend through FY 1998 the pilot Mentor-Protege Program; and (2) for Fiscal Year 1994 to extend through FY 1999 the authority of the Director of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency to carry out prototype activities directly relevant to weapons or weapon systems proposed to be acquired or developed by DOD. Authorizes the Secretary to conduct a follow-on acquisition of any prototype or technology demonstrator developed in connection with such activities. (Sec. 803) Provides that any subdivision of appropriations made in this Act and hereafter under the heading "Shipbuilding and Conversion, Navy" shall be considered to be for the same purpose as any subdivision under such heading in any prior year. (Sec. 805) Directs the Secretary to rely on the private sector for commercial or industrial type supplies and services for or beneficial to the accomplishment of authorized DOD functions, except when the Secretary determines that the function should be performed by government personnel. Empowers the Secretary to contract with private or non-government entities for the provision of such functions. Title IX: Organization and Management - Subtitle A: General Matters - Redesignates the North American Air Defense Command as the United States Element, North American Aerospace Defense Command. (Sec. 902) Authorizes civilian DOD employees to be included on ammunition storage boards. Subtitle B: Financial Management - Establishes in DOD and each of the military departments an Environmental Restoration Account. (Currently, there is established in DOD only the Defense Environmental Restoration Account.) (Sec. 911) Authorizes up to $2 million of DOD funds annually to be used for small meals and snacks during specified military recruiting functions. Title X: General Provisions - Subtitle A: Financial Matters - Repeals the requirement that amounts requested for the procurement of reserve equipment be set forth in a separate budget request. (Sec. 1002) Authorizes the Secretary to accept services as contributions for defense programs, projects, and activities. Directs the Secretary to establish written rules to be used as criteria for the acceptance of money, real or personal property, or services for such programs, projects, and activities. (Sec. 1003) Amends the Defense Authorization Amendments and Base Closure and Realignment Act and the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Act of 1990 (base closure laws) to provide for the disposition of funds arising from the disposal of real property or facilities acquired, constructed, or improved with commissary store or nonappropriated funds in connection with the closure or realignment of a military installation under a base closure law. Subtitle B: Civilian Personnel - Authorizes the Secretary to employ necessary civilian faculty personnel at the Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies. (Sec. 1012) Excepts from the competitive service non-attorney positions established in a judge's chambers of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces. (Sec. 1013) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1996 to repeal a provision which requires the Secretary to convert at least 10,000 military positions to civilian positions by the end of FY 1997. Subtitle C: Reporting Requirements - Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Years 1990 and 1991 to strike certain information currently required in an annual report concerning the ballistic missile defense program. (Sec. 1022) Repeals a requirement for an annual report from the Secretary to the Congress on defense contractor reimbursement costs. (Sec. 1023) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1991 to repeal provisions requiring certain notification to parties substantially or seriously affected by military budget reductions, the closure or realignment of military installations, or the cancellation or curtailment of major defense contracts. Subtitle D: Matters Relating to Other Nations - Includes within the provision of international demining activities the payment of travel and subsistence expenses of persons participating in such program and the costs of equipment, supplies, and services acquired to carry out such program. Subtitle E: Other Matters - Repeals the requirement that the National Defense Technology and Industrial Base Council (Council) prepare specified periodic assessments and plans. Directs the Secretary to establish a program for analysis of national technology and industrial base (NTIB) issues, policies, and programs. Repeals specified provisions concerning administration, contracting, coordination and supervision with regard to such program. Directs the Secretary (currently, the Council) to prepare annually through FY 1998 (currently, 1997) selected assessments of the NTIB in attaining national security requirements. Outlines assessment requirements, requiring its integration with DOD's overall budget, acquisition, and logistics decision-making processes. Directs the Secretary to prescribe departmental guidance appropriate to implement the national security objectives of the President. Requires a report from the Secretary to the Congress concerning such guidance. Directs the Secretary to report to the Congress in 1997 and 1998 on such guidance and the addressing of technological and industrial concerns. Repeals a provision requiring the Secretary to coordinate the encouragement of technology transfer with the Council. Empowers the Secretary (currently, the Council) with the authority to appoint members for the Military-Civilian Integration and Technology Transfer Advisory Board, as well as related authority. Repeals the requirement that the National Defense Manufacturing Technology Program be coordinated with the NTIB. (Sec. 1031) Amends the Defense Authorization Amendments and Base Closure and Realignment Act of 1988 to authorize the Secretary to transfer real property located at military installations to be closed to a military department or other entity within DOD or the Coast Guard. (Sec. 1032) Amends the National Defense Authorization Act: (1) for Fiscal Year 1993 to require the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Research, Development, and Acquisition (currently, for Installations, Logistics and Environment) to participate in functions and meetings of State chemical demilitarization citizens advisory commissions; and (2) for Fiscal Years 1990 and 1991 to repeal a provision which terminates at the end of FY 1997 the authority of the Secretary to transfer DOD excess personal property to Federal and State agencies. (Sec. 1034) Transfers to the Secretary (currently, the Secretaries of the Army and Air Force) the authority to control U.S. transportation systems in time of war. (Sec. 1035) Redesignates the: (1) Naval Records and History Gift Fund as the Naval Historical Center Fund; and (2) Office of Naval Records and History as the Naval Historical Center. (Sec. 1036) Repeals a Federal provision directing the Secretary to authorize commissary and exchange officials to negotiate directly with private carriers for the most cost-effective transportation of commissary and exchange supplies by sea without relying on the Military Sealift Command or the Military Traffic Management Command. (Sec. 1037) Authorizes the Secretary or the Secretary of a military department to enter into cooperative agreements for the preservation, management, maintenance, research, and improvement of cultural resources on military installations. (Sec. 1038) Authorizes the President to award the Medal of Honor to certain named individuals for extraordinary service in the Army during World War II. (Sec. 1039) Revises generally provisions authorizing the Secretary to lend material, supplies, and personnel services to the Inaugural Committee. Title XXI(sic): Army - Authorizes the Secretary of the Army to acquire real property and carry out military construction projects in specified amounts at specified installations and locations. Authorizes the Secretary to construct or acquire family housing units, to carry out architectural planning and design activities, and to improve existing military family housing in specified amounts. Authorizes appropriations to the Army for fiscal years after 1996 for military construction, land acquisition, and military family housing functions of the Army. Limits the total cost of construction projects authorized by this title. Title XXII: Navy - Provides, with respect to the Navy, authorizations paralleling those provided for the Army under the previous title. Title XXIII: Air Force - Provides, with respect to the Air Force, authorizations paralleling those provided for the Army. Title XXIV: Defense Agencies - Authorizes the Secretary to acquire real property and carry out military construction projects in specified amounts at specified installations and locations. Authorizes the Secretary to carry out architectural planning and design activities and to improve existing military family housing units, in specified amounts. (Sec. 2404) Earmarks funds authorized under this title for the Department of Defense Family Housing Improvement Fund for appropriate uses. (Sec. 2405) Authorizes the Secretary to carry out certain energy conservation projects. (Sec. 2406) Authorizes appropriations to DOD for fiscal years after 1996 for military construction, land acquisition, and military family housing functions of DOD. Limits the total cost of construction projects authorized by this title. Title XXV: North Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment Program - Authorizes the Secretary to make contributions for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Security Investment Program and authorizes appropriations for fiscal years after 1996 for such contributions. Title XXVI: Guard and Reserve Forces Facilities - Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years after 1996 for the Guard and Reserve forces for acquisition, architectural and engineering services, and construction of facilities. (Sec. 2602) Authorizes specified Army National Guard military construction projects and architectural and engineering services and construction design, using prior year appropriations. Title XXVII: Expiration and Extension of Authorizations - Terminates all authorizations contained in the titles XXI through XXVI of this Act on October 1, 1999, or the date of enactment of an Act authorizing funds for military construction for FY 2000, whichever is later, with exceptions. Extends certain prior-year military construction projects. Title XXVIII: General Provisions - Subtitle A: Military Construction Program and Military Family Housing Changes - Increases: (1) from $300,000 to $350,000 the active and reserve component minor construction threshold for a project the Secretary may carry out using operation and maintenance funds without prior approval from the appropriate congressional committees; and (2) from $400,000 to $1.5 million the reserve component minor construction project threshold beyond which congressional notification and a 21-day waiting period are required. (Sec. 2802) Includes major maintenance and the repair of drives within the definition of an "improvement" for purposes of authorized improvements to military family housing. Subtitle B: Base Closure and Realignment and Environment - Amends the base closure laws to authorize the Secretary to contract with local governments for the provision of certain community services at facilities on installations closed pursuant to such laws. (Sec. 2806) Authorizes the Secretary to pay from the Department of Defense Base Closure Account (Part II) up to $50,000 for stipulated environmental damages assessed against Loring Air Force Base, Maine. Subtitle C: Land Conveyance - Authorizes the Secretary of the Army to convey to: (1) Richmond or Madison County, Kentucky, a specified sewage collection, treatment, and disposal system at Blue Grass Army Depot, Kentucky; (2) the Dublin San Ramon Services District, California, a specified water treatment and distribution system at Camp Parks, California; (3) Leavenworth, Kansas, a specified water treatment and distribution system at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas; (4) Pierce County, Washington, a specified sewage collection, treatment, and disposal system at Fort Lewis, Washington; (5) Odenton, Maryland, a specified water treatment and distribution system at Fort Meade, Maryland; (6) Monmouth County, New Jersey, a specified water treatment and distribution system at Fort Monmouth, New Jersey; and (7) Hinesville, Georgia, a specified sewage collection, treatment, and disposal system at the Hunter Army Air Field, Fort Stewart, Georgia. (Sec. 2814) Authorizes the Secretary of the military department concerned to grant an easement for rights-of-way for electric power or communication poles and lines. Subtitle D: Other Matters - Authorizes the Secretary of the Air Force to enter into an agreement with a local electric utility or private company to have such utility or company install, operate, and maintain a new electrical distribution system at Youngstown Air Reserve Station, Ohio. Provides agreement conditions. Provides funds for such system from funds authorized and appropriated for FY 1996.
Bill· HRH.R. 3231 (104th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 15 April 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title XXI(SIC): Army Title XXII: Navy Title XXIII: Air Force Title XXIV: Defense Agencies Title XXV: North Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment Program Title XXVI: Guard and Reserve Forces Facilities Title XXVII: Expiration and Extension of Authorizations Title XXVIII: General Provisions Subtitle A: Military Construction Program and Military Family Housing Changes Subtitle B: Base Closure and Realignment and Environment Subtitle C: Land Conveyance Subtitle D: Other Matters Military Construction Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1997 - Title XXI(sic): Army - Authorizes the Secretary of the Army to acquire real property and carry out military construction projects in specified amounts at specified installations and locations. Authorizes the Secretary to construct or acquire family housing units, to carry out architectural planning and design activities, and to improve existing military family housing in specified amounts. Authorizes appropriations to the Army for fiscal years after 1996 for military construction, land acquisition, and military family housing functions of the Army. Limits the total cost of construction projects authorized by this title. Title XXII: Navy - Provides, with respect to the Navy, authorizations paralleling those provided for the Army under the previous title. Title XXIII: Air Force - Provides, with respect to the Air Force, authorizations paralleling those provided for the Army. Title XXIV: Defense Agencies - Authorizes the Secretary of Defense (Secretary) to acquire real property and carry out military construction projects in specified amounts at specified installations and locations. Authorizes the Secretary to carry out architectural planning and design activities and to improve existing military family housing units, in specified amounts. (Sec. 2404) Earmarks funds authorized under this title for the Department of Defense (DOD) Family Housing Improvement Fund. (Sec. 2405) Authorizes the Secretary to carry out specified energy conservation projects. (Sec. 2406) Authorizes appropriations to DOD for fiscal years after 1996 for military construction, land acquisition, and military family housing functions. Limits the total cost of authorized construction projects. Title XXV: North Atlantic Treaty Organization Security Investment Program - Authorizes the Secretary to make contributions for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Security Investment Program. Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years after 1996. Title XXVI: Guard and Reserve Forces Facilities - Authorizes appropriations for fiscal years after 1996 for the Guard and Reserve forces for acquisition, architectural and engineering services, and construction of facilities. (Sec. 2602) Authorizes specified Army National Guard military construction projects and architectural and engineering services and construction design, using prior year appropriations. Title XXVII: Expiration and Extension of Authorizations - Terminates all authorizations contained in the preceding titles of this Act on October 1, 1999, or the date of enactment of an Act authorizing funds for military construction for FY 2000, whichever is later, with exceptions. Extends certain prior-year military construction projects. Title XXVIII: General Provisions - Subtitle A: Military Construction Program and Military Family Housing Changes - Increases: (1) from $300,000 to $350,000 the active and reserve component minor construction threshold for a project the Secretary may carry out using operation and maintenance funds without prior approval from the appropriate congressional committees; and (2) from $400,000 to $1.5 million the reserve component minor construction project threshold beyond which congressional notification and a 21-day waiting period are required. (Sec. 2802) Includes major maintenance and the repair of drives within the definition of an "improvement" for purposes of authorized improvements to military family housing. Subtitle B: Base Closure and Realignment and Environment - Amends the Defense Authorization Amendments and Base Closure and Realignment Act and the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Act of 1990 to authorize the Secretary to contract with local governments for the provision of certain community services at facilities on installations closed pursuant to such laws. (Sec. 2806) Authorizes the Secretary to pay from the Department of Defense Base Closure Account (Part II) up to $50,000 for stipulated environmental damages assessed against Loring Air Force Base, Maine. Subtitle C: Land Conveyance - Authorizes the Secretary of the Army to convey to: (1) Richmond or Madison County, Kentucky, a specified sewage collection, treatment, and disposal system at Bluegrass Army Depot, Kentucky; (2) the Dublin San Ramon Services District, California, a specified water treatment and distribution system at Camp Parks, California; (3) Leavenworth, Kansas, a specified water treatment and distribution system at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas; (4) Pierce County, Washington, a specified sewage collection, treatment, and disposal system at Fort Lewis, Washington; (5) Odenton, Maryland, a specified water treatment and distribution system at Fort Meade, Maryland; (6) Monmouth County, New Jersey, a specified water treatment and distribution system at Fort Monmouth, New Jersey; and (7) Hinesville, Georgia, a specified sewage collection, treatment, and disposal system at the Hunter Army Air Field, Fort Stewart, Georgia. (Sec. 2814) Authorizes the Secretary of the military department concerned to grant an easement for rights-of-way for electric power or communication poles and lines. Subtitle D: Other Matters - Authorizes the Secretary of the Air Force to enter into an agreement with a local electric utility or private company to install, operate, and maintain a new electrical distribution system at Youngstown Air Reserve Station, Ohio. Provides agreement conditions. Provides funds for such system from funds authorized and appropriated for FY 1996.
Bill· HRH.R. 3202 (104th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 29 March 1996
Sensible Military Spending Act of 1996 - Limits the fiscal year budget for activities within budget function 050 (military spending) to $245 billion for FY 1997, with annual $10 billion reductions in such amounts through FY 2000. Limits such budget to $210 billion in FY 2001. Prohibits the Secretary of Defense, beginning in FY 1997, from spending more than $1.25 billion during a fiscal year for ballistic missile defense research and development. Prohibits the Secretary from: (1) procuring more than 20 bombers under the B-2 aircraft program; (2) obligating any funds to subsidize the marketing or financing of the sale of conventional arms to another nation; (3) procuring any additional vessels in the Seawolf attack submarine class; or (4) procuring any additional Trident II D-5 nuclear submarines. Prohibits the amount of funds expended during FY 1997 and each fiscal year thereafter on: (1) the new attack submarine from exceeding ten percent of its FY 1996 amount; (2) the F-22 advanced tactical fighter program from exceeding 25 percent of its FY 1996 amount; and (3) foreign intelligence activities from exceeding 90 percent of its FY 1996 amount. Directs the Secretary to cancel or terminate the: (1) Navy's new aircraft carrier program; (2) procurement of new MILSTAR satellites; (3) procurement of C-17 cargo aircraft; and (4) anti-satellite weapons program. Directs the Secretary to achieve any additional savings necessary to reach the military spending limits required under this Act by reducing the active duty force structure and by the consolidation of bases and laboratories, with conditions. States that the Secretary of Energy: (1) shall cancel the tritium production program; (2) may not obligate funds after the date of enactment of this Act for technologies used to separate fissile components; (3) beginning with FY 1997, may not spend more than $50 million during a fiscal year for nuclear test site readiness; (4) in carrying out weapons activities for national security programs under the stockpile stewardship program, may not, during FY 1997 and thereafter, exceed 50 percent of its FY 1996 amount; (5) shall terminate construction of the National Ignition Facility; and (6) shall provide adequate funds for environmental restoration and waste management activities at Department of Energy (DOE) nuclear facilities in order to meet all compliance requirements. Directs each Secretary, after taking into account any reductions in force structure under this Act, to achieve any required additional savings by consolidating bases and laboratories of the Department of Defense, DOE, and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.
Bill· SS. 1646 (104th)open
United States · United States Congress · 27 March 1996
Propane Education and Research Act of 1996 - Authorizes the qualified industry organizations (the National Propane Gas Association, the Gas Processors Association, or successor organizations, or a group of retail marketers or producers who collectively represent at least 25 percent of the volume of propane sold or produced in the United States) to conduct, at their own expense, a referendum among producers and retail marketers for the creation of a Propane Education and Research Council. Directs the Council, if established, to develop programs (including programs to enhance consumer and employee safety and training) and enter into contracts for: (1) propane research and development; (2) consumer education; and (3) payment for program costs with funds collected under this Act. Requires the Council to reimburse the Secretary of Energy annually for any costs incurred by the United States. Authorizes the Council to levy annual assessments on odorized propane, according to prescribed guidelines, to cover program costs. Directs the Council to establish a program to coordinate its operations with any State propane education and research council. Prohibits Council funds from being used for lobbying activities. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to prepare and make available to the Council, the Secretary of Energy (Secretary), and the public, annual analyses of changes in propane prices relative to other energy resources. Requires the Council to restrict its activities to research and development, training, and safety whenever in any year the five-year average rolling price index of consumer grade propane exceeds by more than 10.1 percent the five-year rolling average price composite index of residential electricity, residential natural gas, and refiner price to end users of Number 2 fuel oil. Requires the price of propane to be determined by market forces in all cases. Prohibits the Council from taking action to pass the cost of the annual assessments to consumers. Requires the Secretary of Commerce to report biennially to the Congress and the Secretary on whether: (1) operation of the Council, in conjunction with the cumulative effects of market changes and Federal programs, has had an effect on propane consumers, including residential, agriculture, process, and nonfuel users; and (2) there have been long-term and short-term effects on propane prices as a result of Council activities and Federal programs.
Bill· HRH.R. 3172 (104th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 27 March 1996
Clean Power Production Act - Instructs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to assess and report to the Congress on the reasonable range of environmental impacts associated with electric utility restructuring, including significant proposed State and Federal changes in public utility regulations and the probable results of such changes upon specified air pollutants and the environment. Directs the Administrator and the Secretary of Energy to: (1) establish and co-chair the Commission for Environmental Mitigation of Electric Utility Restructuring to develop strategies and policies using such assessment to mitigate environmental impacts associated with such restructuring; and (2) report to the Congress on such strategies and policies. Authorizes appropriations.
Bill· HRH.R. 3164 (104th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 March 1996
Exempts any former or current Defense nuclear production facility owned or managed by the Department of Energy from the requirements of the Metric System Conversion Act of 1975.
Bill· HRH.R. 3143 (104th)open
United States · United States Congress · 21 March 1996
Prohibits the use of funds, during FY 1997 and thereafter, for the construction or operation of the National Ignition Facility, or any other facility that uses inertial confinement fusion at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, California.
Bill· SS. 1605 (104th)open
United States · United States Congress · 12 March 1996
Energy Policy and Conservation Act Amendment Act - Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to: (1) restate its purpose so as to grant the President authority to fulfill Federal obligations under the international energy program (currently, standby authority, subject to congressional review, to impose rationing and implement energy conservation plans); (2) repeal the loan guarantee program for the development of underground coal mines; and (3) limit only to instances when the Secretary determines before any lease sale that such bidding would adversely affect competition or the receipt of fair market value the current prohibition on certain lease bidding with respect to Outer Continental Shelf lands by persons partly but significantly owned by more than one major oil company or affiliate. Repeals requirements for oil or gas production at the maximum efficient rate and temporary emergency production rate. (Sec. 3) Repeals the mandate for: (1) a Strategic Petroleum Reserve Plan; (2) an Early Storage Reserve; and (3) a Regional Petroleum Reserve. Revises the guidelines for the maintenance of the SPR. Authorizes the Secretary to use underutilized facilities to store petroleum product owned by a foreign government. Repeals guidelines for the use of interim storage facilities, and environmental considerations for existing facilities. Mandates submission of an expansion plan to the Congress when the Secretary determines that a 750 million barrel inventory can reasonably be expected in the Reserve within five years. Makes the Secretary of Energy's authority to acquire petroleum products for the SPR contingent on the availability of funds. Repeals guidelines governing storage, transport, or exchange of petroleum products with respect to: (1) prescriptions for fill operations by the President (minimum fill rates); (2) withdrawals from Naval Petroleum Reserve Numbered 1; (3) fill operations suspensions during emergencies; and (4) a test program of refined petroleum products storage. Instructs the Secretary to sell SPR petroleum at public sale to the highest qualified bidder without regard to Federal, State or local regulations. Makes SPR status reports annual instead of quarterly. Authorizes appropriations for the SPR. Extends the authorities relating to the SPR through FY 2001. (Sec. 4) Repeals general emergency authorities, including energy emergency preparedness authority. Revises guidelines governing: (1) international voluntary agreements affecting emergency responses (including the applicability of the Defense Production Act of 1950); and (2) antitrust defenses applicable to international voluntary agreements (only if the International Energy Agency's Emergency Sharing System has been activated). Extends the authorization of appropriations for interagency working groups to promote exports of renewable energy and energy efficiency products and services through FY 2001. Extends other emergency energy authorities through FY 2001. (Sec. 5) Extends authorizations of appropriations through FY 2001 for: (1) State energy conservation programs; (2) the energy conservation program for schools and hospitals; and (3) the alternative fuels truck commercial application program. (Sec. 6) Modifies the statutory mandate that the President collect certain petroleum product information.
Bill· SS. 1594 (104th)open
United States · United States Congress · 6 March 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Omnibus Appropriations Title I (sic): Department of Justice Title II: Department of Commerce and Related Agencies Title III: The Judiciary Title IV: Department of State and Related Agencies Title V: Related Agencies Title VI: General Provisions Title VII: Rescissions Title VIII: Prison Litigation Reform Title I (sic): Fiscal Year 1996 Appropriations Title II: District of Columbia School Reform Subtitle A: District of Columbia Reform Plan Subtitle B: Public Charter Schools Subtitle C: Even Start Subtitle D: World Class Schools Task Force, Core Curriculum, Content Standards, Assessments and Promotion Gates Subtitle E: Per Capita District of Columbia Public School and Public Charter School Funding Subtitle F: School Facilities Repair and Improvement Subtitle G: Residential School Subtitle H: Progress Reports and Accountability Subtitle I: Partnerships with Business Subtitle J: Management and Fiscal Accountability Subtitle K: Personal Accountability and Preservation of School-Based Resources Subtitle L: Establishment and Organization of the Commission on Consensus Reform in the District of Columbia Public Schools Subtitle M: Parent Attendance at Parent-Teacher Conferences Title I (sic): Department of the Interior Title II: Related Agencies Title III: General Provisions Title I (sic): Department of Labor Title II: Department of Health and Human Services Title III: Department of Education Title IV: Related Agencies Title V: General Provisions Title I (sic): Department of Veterans Affairs Title II: Department of Housing and Urban Development Title III: Independent Agencies Title IV: Corporations Title V: General Provisions Title II (sic): Emergency Supplemental Appropriations for the Fiscal Year Ending September 30, 1996 Title III: Miscellaneous Provisions Title IV: Contingency Appropriations Omnibus Consolidated Rescissions and Appropriations Act of 1996 - Title I (sic): Omnibus Appropriations - Departments of Commerce, Justice, and State, the Judiciary, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1996 - Title I: Department of Justice - Department of Justice Appropriations Act, 1996 - Makes FY 1996 appropriations to the Department of Justice, including funding for the Community Relations Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Immigration and Naturalization Service, and the Federal Prison System. (Sec. 114) Revises provisions of subtitle A (Violent Offender Incarceration and Truth in Sentencing Incentive Grants) of title II (Prisons) of the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994. Directs the Attorney General to provide grants to eligible States to build or expand: (1) correctional facilities to increase the prison bed capacity for the confinement of persons convicted of a "part 1 violent crime" (murder, non-negligent manslaughter, forcible rape, robbery, and aggravated assault) or adjudicated delinquent for an act which, if committed by an adult, would be a part 1 violent crime; (2) temporary or permanent correctional facilities, including facilities on military bases, prison barges, and boot camps, for the confinement of convicted nonviolent offenders and criminal aliens for the purpose of freeing suitable existing prison space for the confinement of persons convicted of a part 1 violent crime; and (3) jails. Authorizes States to enter into regional compacts to carry out such provisions, subject to specified limitations. Specifies that an eligible State may receive either a general grant or a truth-in- sentencing incentive grant, with an exception. Sets forth general eligibility requirements. Requires a State, to be eligible for a general grant, to submit an application to the Attorney General that provides assurances that such State has, since 1993, increased the percentage of persons convicted of a part 1 violent crime sentenced to prison, the average prison time actually to be served in prison by such persons, and the average percentage of time of the sentence to be actually served in prison by persons convicted of a part 1 violent crime and sentenced to prison (with an indeterminant sentencing exception). Requires a State, to be eligible for a truth-in-sentencing incentive grant, to submit such an application providing assurances that: (1) such State has implemented truth-in-sentencing laws that require (or has enacted but has not yet implemented such laws that, within three years, will require) persons convicted of a part 1 violent crime to serve not less than 85 percent of the sentence imposed; or (2) if the State practices indeterminate sentencing, such State demonstrates that the average time served equals at least 85 percent of the sentences established for such crimes under the State's sentencing and release guidelines (with exceptions for geriatric prisoners or those whose medical condition precludes them from posing a threat to the public after a public hearing in which representatives of the public and the prisoner's victims have had an opportunity to be heard regarding a proposed release). Sets forth special rules regarding State: (1) sharing of funds with counties and other units of local government; (2) policies providing for the recognition of the rights and needs of crime victims; (3) use of funds to build or expand juvenile correctional facilities or pretrial detention facilities for juvenile offenders; and (4) use of funds for the privatization of correctional facilities. Sets forth: (1) formulas for the Attorney General to apply in determining the amount of funds that may be granted to each eligible State; and (2) accountability requirements. Authorizes appropriations. Sets forth provisions regarding the distribution, limitations on the use of, and matching requirements with respect to, grant funds. Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) payments for incarceration on tribal lands; (2) payments to eligible States for incarceration of criminal aliens (and authorizes appropriations); (3) support of Federal prisoners in non-Federal institutions (and authorizes appropriations); and (4) reports by the Attorney General to the Congress. Title II: Department of Commerce and Related Agencies - Department of Commerce and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1996 - Makes appropriations for FY 1996 for the Department of Commerce (Department) and related agencies and activities, including: (1) the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative; (2) the International Trade Commission and international trade activities; (3) export administration; (4) the Economic Development Administration; (5) minority business development; (6) economic and statistical analysis and administration; (7) the Bureau of the Census and related activities; (8) the National Telecommunications and Information Administration; (9) public broadcasting facilities, planning, and construction; (10) the Patent and Trademark Office; (11) the National Institute of Standards and Technology and related services and activities; (12) the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (including a transfer of funds); (13) various government trust funds related to ocean and water resources development and activities; (14) technology policy and administration; and (15) the Office of the Inspector General. Rescinds $75 million of amounts available to the National Institute of Standards and Technology for the construction of research facilities. (Sec. 201) Allows advance payments to be made for authorized Department activities only upon certification by Department officials that such payments are in the public interest. (Sec. 206) Directs the Secretary or other appropriate agency head, if legislation is enacted to dismantle or reorganize the Department, to report to the appropriations committees within 90 days thereafter a plan for transferring funds provided to the Department in this Act to the appropriate successor organizations. Authorizes the Secretary to use any available funds to carry out the legislation, including voluntary separation incentives if duly authorized. (Sec. 207) Prohibits the use of funds appropriated under this title to implement specified provisions of the Endangered Species Act relating to the determination of endangered or threatened species, except to delist or reclassify species. (Sec. 208) States that the transfer of title of the Rutland City Industrial Complex to Hilinex, Vermont, shall not require compensation to the Government for its share of such property. (Sec. 209) Directs the Secretary to: (1) commence and complete a demolition of existing structures and an environmental cleanup of the Central Foundry Property in Holt, Alabama; and (2) transfer such property to the Tuscaloosa County Industrial Development Authority. (Sec. 210) Requires any costs incurred by a department or agency funded under this title resulting from personnel actions taken in response to funding reductions included in this title to be absorbed within the total budgetary resources available to such department or agency. Title III: The Judiciary - Judiciary Appropriations Act, 1996 - Appropriates FY 1996 funds for activities of the Judiciary, including: (1) the Supreme Court; (2) the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit; (3) the U.S. Court of International Trade; (4) the Courts of Appeals, district courts, and other judicial services; (5) the Administrative Office of the United States Courts (Administrative Office); (6) the Federal Judicial Center; (7) Judicial Retirement Funds; and (8) the United States Sentencing Commission. (Sec. 305) Revises provisions regarding judicial conferences of the circuits to allow (current law requires) the chief judge to summon judges to and preside at, and every judge to attend and remain throughout, such conferences. Title IV: Department of State and Related Agencies - Department of State and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1996 - Appropriates funds for FY 1996 for the Department of State and related agencies, activities, and programs, including: (1) diplomatic and consular programs; (2) the Capital Investment Fund; (3) the Office of the Inspector General; (4) payments to the Foreign Service Retirement and Disability Fund; (5) contributions to international organizations, peacekeeping activities, conferences and commissions; (6) a grant to the Asia Foundation; (7) the Arms Control and Disarmament Agency (ACDA); (8) the United States Information Agency (USIA); (9) the Eisenhower Exchange Fellowship Program Trust Fund; (10) the Israeli Arab Scholarship Program; (11) the American Studies Collections Endowment Fund; (12) international broadcasting operations, including broadcasting to Cuba; and (13) the National Endowment for Democracy. (Sec. 401) Sets forth authorized and prohibited uses of funds appropriated under this Act. (Sec. 404) Requires the Secretary of State and the Directors of USIA and ACDA, within 90 days after the enactment of legislation consolidating, reorganizing, or downsizing the functions of such department and agencies, to submit to the appropriations committees a proposal for transferring or rescinding funds appropriated herein for such consolidated functions. Authorizes such officials to use any available funds to cover the consolidation costs required by such legislation, including voluntary separation incentives duly authorized. (Sec. 407) Amends the Eisenhower Exchange Fellowship Act to extend its Au Pair programs through FY 1999. (Sec. 408) Repeals Federal provisions limiting the use of endowment trust income under the Eisenhower Exchange Fellowship Act. (Sec. 409) Expresses the sense of the Senate that no funds made available under this Act should be used for the deployment of combat- equipped U.S. military personnel for any ground operations in Bosnia and Herzegovina, except in specific limited circumstances. Title V: Related Agencies - Appropriates funds for FY 1996 for: (1) the Maritime Administration of the Department of Transportation; (2) the Commission for the Preservation of America's Heritage Abroad; (3) the Commission on Civil Rights; (4) the Commission on Immigration Reform; (5) the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe; (6) the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission; (7) the Federal Communications Commission; (8) the Federal Maritime Commission; (9) the Federal Trade Commission; (10) the Japan- United States Friendship Commission; (11) the Legal Services Corporation; (12) the Marine Mammal Commission; (13) the Martin Luther King, Jr. Federal Holiday Commission; (14) the Securities and Exchange Commission; (15) the Small Business Administration; (16) certain accounts and revolving funds; and (17) the State Justice Institute. (Sec. 501) Places limitations on the use of funds by the Legal Services Corporation. Directs the Corporation to: (1) implement a system of competitive awards of grants and contracts that will apply to all contracts for the delivery of legal assistance awarded by the Corporation after March 31, 1996; and (2) promulgate regulations to implement a competitive selection process for the recipients of such grants and contracts. Prohibits the Corporation from: (1) engaging in litigation that is in any way intended to or has the effect of altering or revising any legislative, judicial, or elective district; (2) attempting in any way to influence the issuance of any executive order or regulation or the passage or defeat of any legislation; (3) bringing a class action suit against the Federal Government or any State; (4) providing assistance to any alien unless the alien is lawfully present in this country or meets other specified requirements; (5) supporting or conducting programs to advocate particular public policies or encourage political activities; or (6) participating in any litigation with respect to abortion or any prisoner. Sets forth prohibited uses of funds appropriated to the Corporation. Directs the Corporation to report every 60 days to the appropriations committees setting forth the status of certain legal assistance cases and matters brought through the Corporation. Requires an audit (containing specified information) to be conducted of each person or entity receiving financial assistance from the Corporation. Allows the Corporation access to appropriate legal and financial documents for purposes of such audits, while requiring appropriate confidentiality. Requires such audits for fiscal years beginning on or after January 1, 1996. (Sec. 510) Provides authorized funds transfers, and transfer limits, for appropriations made to the Small Business Administration. Title VI: General Provisions - Sets forth authorized and prohibited uses of funds appropriated by this Act. (Sec. 607) Expresses the sense of the Congress that equipment and products purchased with funds from this Act should be American-made. (Sec. 611) Prohibits the use of funds from this Act to provide specified amenities or personal comforts in the Federal prison system. (Sec. 614) Amends the Federal criminal code to terminate the Advisory Corrections Council. (Sec. 615) Requires costs incurred by a department or agency funded under this title resulting from personnel actions taken in response to funding reductions included in this title to be absorbed within the total budgetary resources available to such department or agency. (Sec. 616) Repeals provisions of the Balanced Budget Downpayment Act, I which, among other things: (1) appropriate necessary amounts at a rate of operations provided for in the conference report on the Departments of Commerce, Justice, and State, the Judiciary, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1996, subject to exceptions; and (2) stipulate that, notwithstanding any other provision of such Act, the rate of operations only for program administration and the continuation of grants awarded in FY 1995 and prior years may be increased up to a level of 75 percent of the final FY 1995 appropriated amount for the Advanced Technology Program of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, and the Ounce of Prevention Council, Drug Courts, Global Learning and Observations to Benefit the Environment, and Cops on the Beat Program. Title VII: Rescissions - Rescinds specified funds from unobligated balances within certain accounts of: (1) the Department of Justice; (2) the State Department; and (3) USIA. Title VIII: Prison Litigation Reform - Prison Litigation Reform Act of 1995 - Revises Federal criminal code provisions regarding remedies for prison crowding to substitute provisions regarding remedies for prison conditions. Prohibits: (1) prospective relief in any civil action regarding prison conditions from extending further than necessary to correct the violation of the Federal right of particular plaintiffs; and (2) the court from granting or approving any such relief unless that relief is narrowly drawn, extends no further than necessary to correct the violation of the Federal right, and is the least intrusive means necessary to correct the violation. Directs the court to give substantial weight to any adverse impact on public safety or the operation of a criminal justice system caused by the relief. Prohibits the court from ordering prospective relief that requires or permits a government official to exceed his or her authority under, or that otherwise violates, State or local law, unless: (1) Federal law permits such relief to be ordered in violation of State or local law; (2) the relief is necessary to correct the violation of a Federal right; and (3) no other relief will correct the violation of the Federal right. Authorizes the court to enter a temporary restraining order or an order for preliminary injunctive relief, which shall automatically expire 90 days after its entry, with exceptions. Directs the court to give substantial weight to any adverse impact on public safety or operation of a criminal justice system caused by the preliminary relief, and to respect principles of comity in tailoring any such relief. Prohibits a prisoner release order from being entered unless: (1) a court has previously entered an order for less intrusive relief that has failed to remedy the deprivation of the Federal right and the defendant has had a reasonable amount of time to comply with the previous court orders; and (2) it is entered by a three-judge court, which finds by clear and convincing evidence that crowding is the primary cause of the violation and no other relief will remedy it. Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) termination or modification of relief; (2) settlements; (3) State law remedies; (4) procedure for motions affecting prospective relief; and (5) the use of special masters. (Sec. 803) Amends the Civil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act to require the Attorney General to personally sign any complaint filed, or any certification or motion to intervene made, to initiate a civil action under the Act. Revises provisions of the Act to prohibit any action from being brought by a prisoner with respect to prison conditions until available administrative remedies are exhausted. Specifies that the failure of a State to adopt or adhere to an administrative grievance procedure shall not constitute the basis for an action. Directs the court to dismiss any such action if satisfied that the action is frivolous or malicious, fails to state a claim upon which relief can be granted, or seeks monetary relief from a defendant who is immune from such relief (and authorizes the court, in such instances, to dismiss the underlying claim without first requiring exhaustion of administrative remedies). Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) limits on the award of attorney's fees; (2) limits on recovery; (3) hearings; and (4) waiver of reply. (Sec. 804) Amends the Federal judicial code to require a prisoner: (1) of a Federal, State, or local institution seeking to bring a civil action or appeal a judgment in a civil action or proceeding without prepayment of fees or security to submit a certified copy of the prisoner's trust fund account statement for the six-month period immediately preceding the filing of the complaint or notice of appeal, obtained from the appropriate official of each institution at which the prisoner is or was confined; and (2) who brings a civil action or files an appeal in forma pauperis to pay the full amount of a filing fee (and directs the court to assess and, when funds exist, to collect, as a partial payment of any court fees required by law, an initial partial filing fee of 20 percent of the greater of the average monthly deposits to the prisoner's account or the average monthly balance in the prisoner's account for such six-month period). Sets forth similar provisions regarding the payment of costs by the prisoner. Revises provisions regarding the appointment of counsel in forma pauperis proceedings to require the court to dismiss the case at any time if the allegation of poverty is untrue or if the action or appeal is frivolous or malicious, fails to state a claim on which relief may be granted, or seeks monetary relief against a defendant who is immune from such relief. Makes an exception to the discharge of debt in a bankruptcy proceeding for a fee imposed by a court for the filing of a case, motion, complaint, or appeal, or for other costs and expenses assessed with respect to such filing, regardless of an assertion of poverty by the debtor or the debtor's status as a prisoner. Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) successive claims; (2) judicial screening of complaints in civil actions brought by prisoners against governmental entities; and (3) limits of Federal tort claims by prisoners. (Sec. 807) Requires any compensatory damages award to a prisoner in connection with a civil action brought against any Federal, State, or local correctional facility or official or agent thereof to be paid directly to satisfy any outstanding restitution orders pending against the prisoner, with the remainder forwarded to the prisoner. (Sec. 808) Provides for notice to crime victims of pending damage awards. (Sec. 809) Authorizes the court to revoke earned release credit under specified circumstances. Amends the Federal criminal code to: (1) direct the Bureau of Prisons, in awarding credit towards service of sentence for satisfactory behavior, to consider whether the prisoner has earned or is making satisfactory progress toward earning a high school diploma or an equivalent degree; and (2) provide that credit awarded after the date of enactment of this Act shall vest on the date the prisoner is released from custody. Title I (sic): Fiscal Year 1996 Appropriations - District of Columbia Appropriations Act, 1996 - Makes appropriations for the District of Columbia Government for FY 1996, including funds for: (1) the Federal payment ($660 million); (2) the Federal contribution to the Police Officers and Fire Fighters', Teachers', and Judges' Retirement Funds ($52.07 million); and (3) the Federal contribution to education reform ($14.93 million). Appropriates specified sums for the District of Columbia out of the District of Columbia general fund for the current fiscal year for: (1) governmental direction and support; (2) economic development and regulation; (3) public safety and justice; (4) the public education system; (5) education reform; (6) human support services; (7) public works; (8) repayment of specified loans and interest; (9) repayment of the general fund recovery debt; (10) repayment of interest on short-term borrowing; (11) the Rainy Day Fund; (12) the incentive buyout program; (13) outplacement services; (14) capital outlay (including rescissions); (15) the Water and Sewer Enterprise Fund and construction projects; (16) the Lottery and Charitable Games Enterprise Fund; (17) the Cable Television Enterprise Fund; (18) the Starplex Fund; (19) D.C. General Hospital; (20) the D.C. Retirement Board; (21) the Correctional Industries Fund; (22) the Washington Convention Center Enterprise Fund; and (23) the D.C. Financial Responsibility and Management Assistance Authority (Authority). Prohibits the use of revenues from Federal sources to support the Statehood Commission and Statehood Compact Commission. Requires the District to operate a free, 24-hour telephone information service where residents of the area surrounding Lorton prison can obtain information about all prison disturbances. Requires the Mayor of the District to reduce appropriations and expenditures in specified amounts for: (1) nonpersonal services and personal services, including by decreasing rates of compensation for District government employees through the renegotiation of existing collective bargaining agreements and otherwise, if necessary; and (2) boards and commissions. Requires the Chief Financial Officer of the District, on behalf of the Mayor, to adjust appropriations and expenditures for personal and nonpersonal services, together with the related full-time equivalent positions, in accordance with the direction of the Authority to obtain a specified net reduction within or among one or several of the various appropriation headings in this Act. (Sec. 101) Sets forth certain uses of and restrictions on the expenditure of appropriations made by this Act. (Sec. 110) Requires that the annual budget for the District of Columbia government for FY 1997 be transmitted to the Congress by April 15, 1996, or as provided under the District of Columbia Financial Responsibility and Management Assistance Act of 1995. (Sec. 123) Directs the Mayor to submit to the D.C. Council, within 30 days after the end of the first quarter of FY 1996, the FY 1996 revenue estimates. (Sec. 130) Prohibits: (1) Federal funds provided under this Act from being used by the District to provide for salaries, expenses, or other costs associated with the offices of U.S. Senator or U.S. Representatives under the District of Columbia Statehood Constitutional Convention Initiatives of 1979; (2) any funds appropriated under this from being expended for any abortion unless it is necessary to save the life of the mother or if the pregnancy is the result of an act of rape or incest; or (3) any funds made available pursuant to this Act from being used to implement or enforce the District Domestic Partner Act (also called the District of Columbia Health Care Benefits Expansion Act of 1992) or any registration system for unmarried, cohabitating couples whether they are homosexual, lesbian, or heterosexual, including registration for the extension of employment, health, or governmental benefits to such couples on the same basis that such benefits are extended to legally married couples. (Sec. 135) Amends the District of Columbia Real Property Tax Revision Act of 1974 to require the D.C. Council, if it extends the time to establish rates of taxation on real property for a tax year, to establish such rates by permanent legislation. Changes the date by which the Council should establish the rates from July 15 to October 15. Applies, during a tax year, the rates of taxation for the prior year if the rates are not established and the Council does not extend the time. Makes the real property tax rates for taxable real property in the District for FY 1996 the same rates in effect for FY 1994. Repeals provisions of the Act which require such rates to be those submitted by the Mayor or the D.C. Council. (Sec. 137) Specifies reporting requirements for: (1) the Mayor (with respect to actions to effect the directives of the Council in this Act with respect to certain spending reductions); (2) the Board of Education; and (3) the University of the District of Columbia. (Sec. 144) Prohibits an agency from filling a position wholly funded by appropriations authorized by this Act which is vacant on October 1, 1995, or which becomes vacant during FY 1996, unless the Mayor or the independent agency submits a proposed resolution of intent to fill the vacant position to the D.C. Council for approval or disapproval. Prohibits any reduction in the number of full-time equivalent positions or any reduction-in-force due to privatization or contracting out if the Authority disallows the full-time equivalent position reduction provided in this Act in meeting the specified ceiling of 35,984 for FY 1996. Allows the appropriate personnel authority to fill a vacant position with a District government employee currently occupying a position that is funded with appropriated funds. Exempts local school-based teachers, officers, teachers' aides, or certain D.C. court personnel. (Sec. 147) Precludes the use of the funds provided in this Act for the renovation of property at 227 7th Street Southeast, Washington, D.C. (commonly known as Eastern Market), except for the regular maintenance and upkeep of its current structure and grounds. (Sec. 149) Modifies D.C. reductions-in-force procedures to allow a personnel authority to establish lesser competitive areas within an agency on the basis of all or a clearly identifiable segment of an agency's mission or a division or major subdivision of an agency. Authorizes each agency head to identify positions for abolishment. Outlines procedures for abolishment of such positions for FY 1996. (Sec. 150) Prohibits the total amount appropriated in this Act under the caption "Division of Expenses" for District operating expenses for FY 1996 from exceeding $4.994 billion, of which $165.339 million shall be from intra-District funds. Allows the Mayor to accept, obligate, and expend Federal, private, and other grants received by the District government that are not reflected in the amounts appropriated in this Act. Prohibits acceptance, obligation, and expenditure of such grants until: (1) the Chief Financial Officer submits to the Authority a report setting forth detailed information regarding such grant; and (2) the Authority reviews and approves such action. Prohibits obligation or expenditure from the general fund or other funds of the District government in anticipation of approval or receipt of such grants not subject to this Act. Requires the Chief Financial Officer to report monthly to the D.C. Council and specified congressional committees on detailed information regarding all of such grants subject to this Act. (Sec. 151) Requires the District, by March 15, 1996, to develop a series of alternative plans for the use and operation of the Lorton Correctional Complex, including plans under which the Complex will be closed, will remain in operation under the District's management, or will be operated under Federal or private management (Sec. 152) Prohibits a person from joining in a petition to a District court for a decree of adoption unless the person is the petitioner's spouse. Allows an unmarried person to file a petition for adoption when no other person joins in the petition or where the co-petitioner is the natural parent of the child. (Sec. 154) Establishes in the Water and Sewer Enterprise Fund: (1) the Operation and Maintenance Account to be used solely for funding the operation and maintenance of the Blue Plains Wastewater Treatment Facility and related waste water treatment works; and (2) an Environmental Protection Agency Grant Account to be used solely for purposes specified under the terms of the grants and appropriations involved. Title II: District of Columbia School Reform - District of Columbia School Reform Act of 1995 - Subtitle A: District of Columbia Reform Plan - Requires the Superintendent of the District of Columbia public schools, with the approval of the Board of Education, to submit a long-term reform plan for the District's school system to the Mayor, the D.C. Council, the District of Columbia Financial Responsibility and Management Assistance Authority, the Commission on Consensus Reform in the District of Columbia public schools (established under subtitle L), and the appropriate congressional committees within 90 days after this Act's enactment and each February 15 thereafter. Requires each plan to be consistent with the financial plan and budget for the District for FY 1996 and each subsequent fiscal year, as the case may be, required under the District of Columbia Financial Responsibility and Management Assistance Act of 1995. Specifies areas to be addressed, measurement and deadline requirements, and goals for the plans, including: (1) improving the health and safety of students; and (2) providing after-school programs offering such activities as arts classes, physical fitness programs, and community service. Subtitle B: Public Charter Schools - Prescribes the process for filing charter petitions with respect to an eligible applicant seeking to: (1) convert an existing District public, private, or independent school into a public charter school; or (2) establish a public charter school in the District. (Sec. 2202) Lists the contents of public charter school petitions, including a description of the proposed scope and size of the school's program, any special area of focus for the school, the employment relationship between the school and its employees, and assurances that the school will seek and maintain accreditation and licensing. Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) the process for approving or denying petitions (permits approval of up to ten petitions for the 1996-1997 academic year and up to five for each year thereafter); (2) duties, powers, and other requirements of such schools (prohibits the schools from charging tuition, fees, or other mandatory payments, except to nonresident students or for field trips or similar activities and requires the schools to be nonsectarian and unaffiliated with a sectarian school or religious institution); (3) the Boards of Trustees of such schools; (4) student admission, enrollment, and withdrawal; (5) transfers, creditable service, and retirement concerns of District public school employees who work for public charter schools; (6) reduced fares on public transportation for the schools' students; and (7) the provision of services, such as facilities maintenance, to public charter schools by the Superintendent of D.C. schools. (Sec. 2210) Considers a public charter school, for any fiscal year, to be a local educational agency (LEA) for purposes of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) and makes the school eligible for assistance under ESEA if the ratio of low-income students to all students in the school equals or exceeds the lowest of such ratio for an eligible public school. Provides for the allocation of ESEA assistance between eligible District public charter schools and public schools for FY 1996 through 1998. Requires the Secretary of Education to calculate such allocations for FY 1999 and there after according to a specified formula based on the numbers of low-income students served. Prohibits the Board of Education from directing a public charter school in the school's use of such funds. Exempts the public charter schools from specified ESEA provisions and from District property and sales taxes. Directs each public charter school to elect to be treated as an LEA or a District public school for purposes of specified provisions of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. (Sec. 2211) Outlines the powers and duties of eligible chartering authorities. (Sec. 2212) Requires a charter granted to a public charter school to be in force for a five-year period. Allows renewal of such charter for an unlimited number of times (each for a five-year period). (Sec. 2213) Permits an eligible chartering authority that has granted a charter to a public charter school to revoke the charter if the authority determines that the school has committed a violation of applicable laws or a material violation of the conditions, terms, standards, or procedures set forth in the charter. (Sec. 2214) Establishes a Public Charter School Board within the District government. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1996 through 2000. (Sec. 2215) Encourages the following Federal agencies and federally established entities to explore whether it is feasible for the agency or entity to establish one or more public charter schools and to report such determination on the feasibility to the appropriate congressional committees: (1) the Library of Congress; (2) the National Aeronautics and Space Museum; (3) the Drug Enforcement Administration; (4) the National Science Foundation; (5) the Department of Justice; (6) the Department of Defense; (7) the Department of Education; and (8) the Smithsonian Institution, including the National Zoological Park, the National Museum of American History, the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, and the National Gallery of Art. Subtitle C: Even Start - Amends ESEA to authorize appropriations for FY 1996 through 2000 for the purpose of carrying out Even Start programs in the District. Requires the Secretary to provide grants, on a competitive basis, to eligible entities to enable them to carry out District Even Start programs that build on the findings of the National Evaluation of the Even Start Family Literacy Program, such as providing intensive services in early childhood education, parent training, and adult literacy or education. Limits such grants to eight for FY 1996, 14 for FY 1997, 20 for each of FY 1998 and 1999, and 20 or such number as the Secretary determines appropriate for FY 2000, taking into account the results of evaluations described in ESEA. Defines "eligible entity" as a partnership composed of at least: (1) a District public school: (2) the LEA in existence on September 1, 1995, for the District, any other public organization, or an institution of higher education as defined in the Higher Education Act of 1965; and (3) a private nonprofit community-based organization. Directs the Secretary to allocate specified amounts of authorized appropriations for District Even Start programs to: (1) enter into a contract with the National Center for Family Literacy for the provision of technical assistance to eligible entities; and (2) provide for evaluations to determine the effectiveness of such programs in providing high quality family literacy services. Subtitle D: World Class Schools Task Force, Core Curriculum, Content Standards, Assessments, and Promotion Gates - Part 1: World Class Schools Task Force, Core Curriculum, Content Standards, and Assessments - Authorizes the Superintendent to award a grant to a World Class Schools Task Force to enable the Task Force to recommend to the Superintendent, the Board of Education, and the District of Columbia Goals Panel: (1) content standards in the core academic subjects that are developed by working with the District community (requires such standards to be developed within 12 months after this Act's enactment); (2) a core curriculum (which includes the teaching of computer skills) developed by working with the D.C. community; (3) district-wide assessments for measuring student achievement in accordance with such content standards; and (4) model professional development programs for teachers using the standards and curriculum. Encourages the Task Force, to the extent practicable, to develop district-wide assessments that permit comparison among: (1) individual D.C. public schools and public charter schools and individual students attending such schools; and (2) students of other nations. (Sec. 2415) Authorizes appropriations for FY 1996. Part 2: Promotion Gates - Requires the Superintendent, within one year of the adoption of the assessments, to establish and implement promotion gates: (1) for mathematics, reading, and writing for at least one grade level from kindergarten through grade four, including at least grade four, and to establish dates for establishing such other promotion gates for other subject areas; (2) with respect to at least one grade level from grades five through eight, including at least grade eight; and (3) with respect to at least one grade level from grades nine through 12, including grade 12. Subtitle E: Per Capita District of Columbia Public School and Public Charter School Funding - Requires the Mayor, for FY 1997 and each fiscal year thereafter, to make annual payments to the Board of Education for the operating expenses of the District public schools and charter schools from the general fund of the District in accordance with a specified formula based on the number of students in public schools and public charter schools. (Sec. 2502) Sets forth provisions which require reports by: (1) each public school and charter school to the Mayor and the Board of Education of the calculation of the number of students enrolled in each grade from kindergarten through grade 12; (2) the Board of Education to the Authority, the Mayor, the D.C. Council, the Consensus Commission, the Comptroller General of the United States, and appropriate congressional committees which summarize the most recent calculations; and (3) the Authority on an independent audit of such initial calculations. (Sec. 2503) Sets forth provisions providing for transition funding for District public charter schools. Subtitle F: School Facilities Repair and Improvement - Part 1: School Facilities - Requires the Administrator of the General Services Administration to enter into a Memorandum of Agreement or Understanding with the Superintendent regarding the terms under which the Administrator will provide technical assistance and related services with respect to District public schools facilities management. Authorizes the Administrator to accept and use a conditioned gift made for the express purpose of repairing or improving the District public schools, except that the Administrator shall not be required to carry out such repairs or improvements unless he or she accepts a donation sufficient to cover the costs of the repairs or improvements. (Sec. 2552) Requires the Mayor and the D.C. Council, within 24 months after the Agreement is signed and in consultation with the Administrator, the Authority, the Board of Education, and the Superintendent to: (1) design and implement a comprehensive long-term program for the repair and improvement, and maintenance and management, of the District public school facilities; and (2) designate a new or existing agency or authority within the District government to administer the program. (Sec. 2553) Authorizes appropriations to the Administrator for FY 1996 for the costs of engineering plans. Part 2: Waivers - Allows voluntary donation of materials and services for the repair and improvement of District school facilities. Waives, with respect to any contractor, subcontractor, and any other group, entity, or individual who donates materials and services for the repair or improvement of a District public school facility, all District fees and all requirements contained in the document entitled "District of Columbia Public Schools Standard Contract Provisions" published by the District public schools for use with construction or maintenance projects for purposes of repair and improvement of such facilities for a period beginning on this Act's enactment date and ending 24 months after such date. Part 3: Gifts, Donations, Bequests, and Devises - Allows a District public school or public charter school to accept directly from any person a gift, donation, bequest, or devise of any property, real or personal, without regard to any District law or regulation. Subtitle G: Residential School - Authorizes the Superintendent to develop a plan that meets specified requirements to establish for the District a residential school for academic year 1997-1998 and to assist in the startup of such school. Authorizes appropriations for FY 1996 to develop the plan and for 1997 for capital costs associated with the startup of the school, including the purchase of real and personal property and the renovation or construction of facilities. Makes the school an eligible institution for the purposes of scholarships awarded under this Act. Subtitle H: Progress Reports and Accountability - Requires the Superintendent to report to the appropriate congressional committees, the Board of Education, the Mayor, the Consensus Commission, and the D.C. Council on the progress of the District public schools toward achieving the goals of the long-term reform plan. (Sec. 2652) Requires the Chairperson of the D.C. Council to report to such committees on legislative and other actions the Council has taken or will take to facilitate the implementation of the goals of such plan. Subtitle I: Partnerships with Business - Requires the Superintendent to provide a grant to a private, nonprofit corporation which shall: (1) establish the District Education and Learning Technologies Advancement Council; (2) in conjunction with the Superintendent, students, parents, and teachers, implement strategies to ensure access to state-of-the-art educational technology within the District public schools and public charter schools; (3) assist the Superintendent in acquiring the necessary equipment, including computer hardware and software, to establish an electronic data transfer system and in training District public school employees in using such equipment; (4) establish the District Employment and Learning Center to serve as a regional institute providing job training and employment assistance; (5) establish initiatives with the District public schools and public charter schools, appropriate governmental agencies, and businesses and other private entities to facilitate the integration of rigorous academic studies with workforce preparation programs in District public schools and public charter schools; (6) establish a consortium for the purpose of establishing a program for the professional development of teachers and school administrators employed by the District public schools and public charter schools; (7) provide matching funds, or in-kind contributions, or a combination thereof, for the purposes of carrying out such duties; and (8) establish the Jobs for District of Columbia Graduates Program to assist District public schools and public charter schools in organizing and implementing a school-to-work transition system to give priority to providing assistance to at-risk and disadvantaged youths. (Sec. 2705) Requires the corporation, to the extent practicable, to provide matching funds, or in-kind contributions, or a combination thereof, for the purposes of carrying out such duties. (Sec. 2708) Authorizes appropriations for FY 1996 through 1998. (Sec. 2709) Terminates on October 1, 1998, the authority to provide assistance to the corporation or any other entity established by it. Expresses the sense of the Congress that: (1) the corporation's activities under this Act should continue to be carried out after such date with resources made available from the private sector; and (2) the corporation should provide oversight and coordination for such activities after such date. Subtitle J: Management and Fiscal Accountability - Requires the Board of Education: (1) to enter into a contract for academic year 1995 through 1996 and each succeeding academic year for the provision of all food services operations and security services for District public schools, unless the Superintendent determines that it is not feasible and provides such reasons in writing to the Board and to the Authority; and (2) for academic year 1995 through 1996, to consult with the Authority on the development of new management and data systems, as well as training of personnel to use and manage the systems in areas of budget, finance, personnel and human resources, management information services, procurement, supply management, and other systems recommended by the Authority. (Sec. 2752) Sets forth provisions with respect to the Board of Education regarding: (1) annual reporting requirements on positions and employees of the D.C. public school system; (2) annual budgets and budget revisions; (3) read-only access to its internal financial management systems and all other data bases to designated staff of the Mayor, the Council, the Authority, and appropriate congressional committees; and (4) development of its FY 1997 budget request. Subtitle K: Personal Accountability and Preservation of School- Based Resources - Prohibits a reduction in the full-time equivalent positions for school-based teachers, principals, counselors, librarians, or other school-based educational positions that were established as of the end of FY 1995, unless the Authority determines, based on student enrollment that: (1) fewer school-based positions are needed to maintain established pupil-to-staff ratios; or (2) reductions in positions for other than school-based employees are not practicable. Defines "school-based educational position" as a position located at a District public school or other position providing direct support to students at such a school such as a position for a clerical, stenographic, or secretarial employee, but not any part-time educational aide position. (Sec. 2802) Amends the District of Columbia Government Comprehensive Merit Personnel Act of 1978 to modify the Board of Education's reduction-in-force procedures to prohibit the Board from requiring or permitting nonschool-based personnel or school administrators to be assigned or reassigned to the same competitive level as classroom teachers. (Sec. 2803) Makes the evaluation process and instruments for evaluating District public school employees a nonnegotiable item for collective bargaining purposes. (Sec. 2804) Provides that such an employee shall be: (1) classified as an educational service employee; (2) placed under the Board's personnel authority; and (3) subject to all Board rules. Subtitle L: Establishment and Organization of the Commission on Consensus Reform in the District of Columbia Public Schools - Establishes within the District government a Commission on Consensus Reform in the District of Columbia Public Schools to: (1) identify and suggest ways to remove obstacles to implementation of the long- term reform plan; (2) assist in developing programs that lower the dropout rate and that ensure that public school students achieve basic literacy, critical thinking, and communication skills; (3) assist in developing district-wide skills assessments; (4) make recommendations to improve community, parent, and business involvement in public schools; (5) recommend ways to increase student involvement and attention; and (6) assist in establishing procedures that ensure that every student is provided necessary employment skills, including the development of individual career paths. (Sec. 2854) Requires any student who is required to serve a suspension from classes at a District public school outside the school, to perform community service. (Sec. 2855) Allows the Commission to examine and request the Inspector General of the District of Columbia or the Authority to audit: (1) Board of Education records to ensure, monitor, and evaluate the Board's performance with respect to compliance with the long-term reform plan and such plan's overall educational achievement; and (2) records of any public charter school to assure, monitor and evaluate the performance of the school with respect to the content standards and district-wide assessment. Subtitle M: Parent Attendance at Parent-Teacher Conferences - Authorizes the Mayor to implement a policy which encourages all District residents with children attending a District public school to attend and participate in at least one parent-teacher conference every 90 days during the academic year. Department of the Interior and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1996 - Title I (sic): Department of the Interior - Makes appropriations for the FY 1996 operation of the Department of the Interior. Prohibits this Act's funds being spent by the National Park Service for activities in direct response to the United Nations Biodiversity Initiative in the United States. Authorizes the National Park Service (NPS) to transfer NPS funds to State, local, and tribal governments, other public entities, educational institutions, and private nonprofit organizations to carry out NPS programs. Directs the National Park Service to conduct a Feasibility Study for a northern access route into Denali National Park and Preserve in Alaska. Restricts or regulates: (1) the use of this Act's research resources funds regarding the Endangered Species Act; and (2) activities and funding relating to the National Biological Survey. Provides funding for the closure of the U.S. Bureau of Mines, transferring specified functions to the Secretary of Energy. Sets forth the uses and limitations for such appropriations, including use of Bureau of Indian Affairs school system funds. Provides for a report concerning Indian tribes and their compliance with provisions of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. (Sec. 109) Repeals the Outer Banks Protection Act. (Sec. 118) Sets forth provisions affecting the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, American Samoa, the Virgin Islands, the Republic of Palau, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of the Marshall Islands concerning infrastructure assistance. Title II: Related Agencies - Makes appropriations for FY 1996 for the Department of Agriculture for the Forest Service. Prohibits the use of funds to implement any reorganization or "reinvention" of the Forest Service. Makes appropriations for the Department of Energy for, among other things, fossil energy research and development, the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR), and the SPR Account. Makes appropriations to the Department of Health and Human Services for the Indian Health Service for Indian health services and facilities. Appropriates funds to: (1) the Department of Education for the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education for Indian Education; (2) the Office of Navajo and Hopi Relocation; (3) the Institute of American Indian and Alaska Native Culture and Arts Development; (4) the Smithsonian Institution; (5) construction and improvements at the National Zoological Park; (6) restoration and repair of buildings owned or occupied by the Smithsonian Institution; (7) the National Gallery of Art; (8) the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts; and (9) the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars. Makes appropriations for: (1) the National Foundation on the Arts and the Humanities; (2) the Institute of Museum Services; (3) the Commission of Fine Arts; (4) National Capital arts and cultural affairs; (5) the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation; (6) the National Capital Planning Commission; (7) the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial Commission; and (8) the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Council. Requires that funds made available in previous years for the Pennsylvania Avenue Development Corporation be available for operating and administrative expenses and for the orderly closure of the Corporation. Rescinds $2.172 million. Sets forth uses and prohibitions on such funds. Title III: General Provisions - Sets forth uses and limitations of funds appropriated by this Act. (Sec. 307) Requires expenditures under this Act to comply with the Buy American Act. Expresses the sense of the Congress that entities receiving Federal assistance should purchase only American-made equipment and products. Prohibits Federal contracts with persons found to have falsely labeled a product with a "Made in America" inscription. (Sec. 312) Prohibits any funds from this Act from being used for the AmeriCorps program. (Sec. 313) Mandates dissolution of the Pennsylvania Avenue Development Corporation. (Sec. 314) Regulates use of any Act's funds for the Interior Columbia Basin Ecosystem Management Project. (Sec. 315) Directs the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture to implement a fee program to demonstrate the feasibility of user-generated cost recovery for the operation and maintenance of recreation areas or sites and habitat enhancement projects on Federal lands. (Sec. 322) Prohibits, with exceptions, use of this Act's funds to accept or process applications for a patent for any mining or mill site claim located under the general mining laws. (Sec. 324) Prohibits funding the Office of Forestry and Economic Development after December 31, 1995. (Sec. 326) Provides for a land exchange in Washington State. Authorizes appropriations as necessary to carry out this Act. (Sec. 327) Provides for the establishment of the Timber Sales Pipeline Restoration Fund. (Sec. 328) Places limitations on the type of grant awards that can be made by the National Endowment for the Arts. (Sec. 329) Delays the implementation of regulations concerning livestock grazing on lands administered by the Forest Service. (Sec. 330) Increases penalties for the use of a hazardous or injurious device on Federal or Indian lands. (Sec. 331) Prohibits, notwithstanding any other provision of law, the use of funds available to the National Endowment for the Arts pursuant to this Act to promote, disseminate, sponsor, or produce any material or performance that: (1) denigrates the religious objects or religious beliefs of the adherents of a particular religion; or (2) depicts or describes, in a patently offensive way, sexual or excretory activities or organs. Requires that this prohibition be strictly applied without regard to the content or viewpoint of the material or performance. (Sec. 333) Prohibits using this Act's funds to review or modify sourcing areas previously approved under specified provisions of the Forest Resources Conservation and Shortage Relief Act of 1990 or to enforce or implement specified Federal regulations. Prohibits adoption of policies that would restrain domestic transportation or processing of timber from private lands or impose additional accountability requirements on any timber. Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1996 - Title I (sic): Department of Labor - Department of Labor Appropriations Act, 1996 - Makes appropriations for FY 1996 for agencies within the Department of Labor. Rescinds unobligated advances to the Employment Security Administration account of the Unemployment Trust Fund. Title II: Department of Health and Human Services - Department of Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 1996 - Makes appropriations for FY 1996 for agencies within the Department of Health and Human Services. Rescinds existing and makes new appropriations for low income home energy assistance, designating certain of the new appropriations as emergency requirements under the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 and making those funds available only on a formal presidential budget request that designates the request as an emergency requirement under that Act. Provides limitations on the use of appropriated funds. (Sec. 207) Requires a transfer of funds for the security protection of the Secretary of Health and Human Services. (Sec. 209) Rescinds amounts for Disease Control, Research, and Training under the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Title III: Department of Education - Department of Education Appropriations Act, 1996 - Makes appropriations for FY 1996 for agencies and programs within the Department of Education. Sets forth general provisions relating to the use of appropriated funds. (Sec. 301) Prohibits appropriated funds from being used to transport teachers or students in order to: (1) overcome racial imbalance in any school or school system; or (2) carry out a racial desegregation plan. (Sec. 303) Prohibits the use of funds to prevent the implementation of programs of voluntary prayer and meditation in the public schools. Title IV: Related Agencies - Makes appropriations for FY 1996 for the following agencies or programs: (1) Armed Forces Retirement Home; (2) Corporation for National and Community Service; (3) Corporation for Public Broadcasting; (4) Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service; (5) Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission; (6) National Commission on Libraries and Information Science; (7) National Council on Disability; (8) National Education Goals Panel; (9) National Labor Relations Board; (10) National Mediation Board; (11) Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission; (12) Physician Payment Review Commission; (13) Prospective Payment Assessment Commission; (14) Social Security Administration; (15) Railroad Retirement Board; and (16) United States Institute of Peace. Title V: General Provisions - Sets forth provisions on the use of the appropriated funds. (Sec. 505) Prohibits the use of funds to carry out any program of distributing sterile needles for the hypodermic injection of any illegal drug unless the Surgeon General determines that such programs are effective in preventing the spread of HIV and do not encourage the use of illegal drugs. (Sec. 506) Expresses the sense of the Congress that, to the greatest extent practicable, all equipment and funds purchased under this Act should be American-made. (Sec. 507) Imposes a disclosure requirement on grantees receiving Federal funds. (Sec. 508) Prohibits the use of funds to perform abortions except to save the life of the mother or where the pregnancy is the result of rape or incest. (Sec. 509) Permits States to not perform abortions, except where the life of the mother would be endangered if the fetus were carried to term. (Sec. 510) Sets forth limitations on the use of appropriated funds. Departments of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 1996 - Title I (sic): Department of Veterans Affairs - Makes appropriations for FY 1996 to the Department of Veterans Affairs. Provides for the use of such appropriations. Sets forth various administrative provisions, including specified limitations, with respect to availability, transfers, and use of such appropriations. (Sec. 103) Prohibits availability of such appropriations for: (1) purchase of any site for or toward the construction of any new hospital or home (except the appropriations for construction of major or minor projects or the parking revolving fund); and (2) hospitalization or examination of any persons except beneficiaries entitled under the laws bestowing such benefits to veterans, unless reimbursement is made to the appropriation at rates fixed by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs. (Sec. 108) Authorizes the Secretary to transfer jurisdiction and control of certain land in Wichita, Kansas, to the Secretary of Transportation. Title II: Department of Housing and Urban Development - Makes appropriations for FY 1996 to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Provides for the use of such appropriations. (Sec. 201) Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 (USHA), as amended by the Emergency Supplemental Appropriations for Additional Disaster Assistance, for Anti-terrorism Initiatives, for Assistance in the Recovery from the Tragedy that Occurred at Oklahoma City, and Rescissions Act, 1995, to authorize public housing agencies to provide modernization assistance to mixed-income developments. (Sec. 203) Provides for conversion of certain public housing to vouchers. Requires each PHA to: (1) identify any distressed public housing developments that meet specified criteria; and (2) develop and carry out a plan in conjunction with the Secretary for their removal from the PHA inventory and the annual contributions contract, over a period of up to five years (with possible extensions for up to another five years in certain circumstances). Directs the Secretary to make authority available to a PHA to provide section 8 tenant-based assistance to families residing in any development that is removed from the PHA inventory and the annual contributions contract. Requires each conversion plan to require the PHA to notify and counsel families residing in such a development, and ensure that they are offered tenant-based or project-based assistance and relocated, as necessary, to other decent, safe, sanitary, and affordable housing which is, to the maximum extent practicable, housing of their choice. (Sec. 204) Repeals a "take one-take all" requirement under USHA that a housing owner who accepts a Section 8 voucher holder as a tenant must accept all others. Exempts housing unit owners participating in the certificate and voucher programs from certain notice requirements relating to rent increases or termination of their assistance payment contracts with a PHA. Limits certain requirements to the duration of a lease. (Sec. 206) Directs the Secretary to conduct a demonstration program under which up to 30 selected PHAs (including Indian housing authorities) may administer the public or Indian housing program and the section 8 housing assistance payments program in ways which are designed to reduce costs and achieve greater cost-effectiveness in Federal expenditures, provide incentives for heads of households to become economically self-sufficient, and increase housing choices for lower-income families. (Sec. 208) Amends the Multifamily Housing Finance Improvement Act, under the housing and Community Development Act of 1992, to extend the risk-sharing and housing finance agency pilot demonstration programs but reduce the number of units involved in such programs during FY 1996. (Sec. 209) Authorizes the Secretary of HUD to delegate, during FY 1996, to one or more entities the authority to carry out some or all of the Secretary's responsibilities and functions in connection with the foreclosure of HUD-held mortgages under the National Housing Act (NHA). (Sec. 210) Authorizes the Secretary, during FY 1996, to sell or otherwise transfer multifamily mortgages held by the Secretary under the National Housing Act to State housing finance agencies, in connection with the risk-sharing or the housing finance agency pilot demonstration program under the Housing and Community Development Act of 1992, without regard to certain unit limitations. (Sec. 211) Amends section 8 of the USHA to provide for the transfer of budget authority. Directs the Secretary, if a section 8 assistance contract, other than a contract for tenant-based assistance, is terminated, not renewed, or expires, to transfer any budget authority remaining in that contract to another contract, in order to provide continued assistance to eligible families, including those receiving the benefit of the project-based assistance at the time of the termination. (Sec. 212) Makes certain amendments (made by the Departments of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 1995) relating to documentation of multifamily refinancings under the National Housing Act effective during FY 1996 and thereafter. (Sec. 213) Directs the Secretary, in FY 1996 and 1997, to initiate a demonstration program with respect to multifamily projects: (1) whose owners agree to participate; (2) whose mortgages are insured under the NHA and assisted under section 8 of the USHA; and (3) whose present section 8 rents are, in the aggregate, exceed the fair market rent of the locality in which the project is located. Requires these programs to be designed to test the feasibility and desirability of the goal of ensuring, to the maximum extent practicable, that the debt service and operating expenses, including adequate reserves, attributable to such multifamily projects can be supported with or without mortgage insurance under the NHA and with or without above-market rents and utilizing project-based assistance or, with the consent of the property owner, tenant-based assistance, while taking into account the need for assistance of low and very low-income families in such projects. Authorizes the Secretary to use arrangements with third parties, under which the Secretary may provide for their assumption of some or all of the Secretary's functions, obligations, and benefits. Sets forth goals and demonstration approaches for such programs. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) manage and dispose of multifamily properties and multifamily mortgages for properties assisted under section 8 with rents above 110 percent of fair market rents; and (2) delegate to one or more entities the authority to carry out some or all of the Secretary's functions and responsibilities in connection with the foreclosure of mortgages held under the NHA. Authorizes the Secretary, subject to the consent of specified parties, to: (1) remove, relinquish, extinguish, modify, or agree to the removal of any mortgage, regulatory agreement, project-based assistance contract, use agreement, or restriction that had been imposed or required by the Secretary, including restrictions on distributions of income which would interfere with the ability of the project to operate without above market rents; (2) require an owner of a property assisted under the section 8 new construction-substantial rehabilitation program to apply any accumulated residual receipts toward effecting program purposes; (3) enter into contracts to purchase reinsurance, or enter into participations or otherwise transfer economic interest in contracts of insurance or in the premiums paid, or due to be paid, on such insurance to third parties; (4) offer project-based assistance with rents at or below fair market rents for the locality and negotiate other terms acceptable to the Secretary and the project owner; (5) offer to pay all or a portion of the project's debt service, including payments monthly from the appropriate Insurance Fund, for the full remaining term of the insured mortgage; (6) forgive and cancel any mortgage debt insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) that a demonstration program property cannot carry at market rents while bearing full operating costs; and (7) for demonstration program properties that cannot carry full operating costs (excluding debt service) at market rents, approve project-based rents sufficient to carry such full operating costs (and offer to pay the full debt service in the specified manner). Directs the Secretary to develop procedures to provide appropriate and timely notice to local government officials, the community, and the tenants of the project. Limits such demonstration program authority with respect to mortgages to not more than 15,000 units. Prohibits the expansion of such demonstration until specified reports are submitted to the Congress. Appropriates funds for the cost of modifying loans held or guaranteed by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). (Sec. 217) Requires all remaining obligated and unobligated balances in the Renewal of Expiring Section 8 Subsidy Contracts account on September 30, 1995, to be transferred to and merged with the obligated and unobligated balances, respectively, of the Annual Contributions for Assisted Housing account. (Sec. 218) Directs the Secretary to cancel the indebtedness of the Hubbard Hospital Authority of Hubbard, Texas, of the Groveton Texas Hospital Authority, and of the Hepzibah Public Service District of Hepzibah, West Virginia, relating to specified public facilities loans under title II of the Housing Amendments of 1955. (Sec. 219) Determines the Paul Mirabile Center, San Diego, California, to satisfy HUD continuum care requirements. Treats such Center as entirely residential rental property consisting solely of residential units used exclusively to facilitate the transition of homeless individuals to independent living within 24 months. (Sec. 220) Limits to no more than seven Assistant Secretaries and 77 schedule C and 20 non-career senior executive service employees the number of such Assistant Secretaries and employees in HUD by the end of FY 1996. (Sec. 221) Requires specified funds to be made available to: (1) the County of San Bernardino in California to assist with the expansion of the Los Padrinos Gang Intervention Program and the Unity Home Domestic Violence Shelter (from remaining funds made available to Bethlehem House in Highland, California, for site planning and loan acquisition); and (2) the University of Toledo in Toledo, Ohio, for the renovation and rehabilitation of an industrial building (from specified funds for removal of asbestos from an abandoned public school building in that city). (Sec. 222) Amends the Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act of 1992 to revise eligibility criteria to determine which housing qualifies for lead-based paint abatement grants. (Sec. 223) Amends USHA to repeal the six-year limitation on the extension period for Federal sharing of utility cost savings with PHAs under the program of annual contributions for operation of low-income housing. (Sec. 223A) Amends NHA, with respect to the housing program for moderate income and displaced families, to extend through FY 1996 the period for mortgage note sales. (Sec. 223B) Amends the Department of Housing and Urban Development-Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 1988 to repeal the prohibition (Frost-Leland) against the use of funds for demolishing certain historic buildings in Dallas and Houston, Texas. (Sec. 223D) Prohibits the use of any funds in this Act: from being used: (1) by the Secretary to impose any sanction or penalty because of the enactment of any State or local law or regulation declaring English as the official language; or (2) for lobbying activities as prohibited by law. (Sec. 223E) Transfers to the Department of Justice all HUD functions, activities, and responsibilities relating to title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968, as amended by the Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988, and the Fair Housing Act, including any rights guaranteed under the Fair Housing Act and any functions relating to the Fair Housing Initiatives program under the Housing and Community Development Act of 1987, along with adequate personnel and resources allocated to any such activity. (Sec. 224) Prohibits the use of any funds provided in this Act during FY 1996 to investigate or prosecute under the Fair Housing Act any otherwise lawful activity engaged in by one or more persons, including the filing or maintaining of non-frivolous legal action, that is engaged in solely for the purposes of achieving or preventing action by a Government official, entity, or court of competent jurisdiction. (Sec. 225) Prohibits the use of any funds provided in this Act to take any enforcement action with respect to a complaint of discrimination under the Fair Housing Act on the basis of familial status and which involves an occupancy standard established by the housing provider, except to the extent that it is found that there has been discrimination in contravention of the standards provided a specified HUD Memorandum, or until such time that HUD issues a final rule. (Sec. 226) Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 with respect to the eligibility of housing reconstruction costs for expenditure of Community Development Block Grant funds. Title III: Independent Agencies - Makes appropriations for FY 1996 to the: (1) American Battle Monuments Commission; (2) Community development Financial Institutions Fund; (3) Consumer Product Safety Commission; (4) Corporation for National and Community Service (including transfer of funds); (5) Court of Veterans Appeals; (6) Department of Defense-Civil for cemeterial expenses, Army; (7) Environmental Protection Agency; (8) Executive Office of the President for the Office of Science and Technology Policy; (9) Council on Environmental Quality and Office of Environmental Quality; (10) Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA); (11) General Services Administration for the Consumer Information Center; (12) National Aeronautics and Space Administration; (13) National Credit Union Administration for the obligations of the Central Liquidity Facility; (14) National Science Foundation; (15) Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation; and (16) Selective Service System. Authorizes exemption from categorical pretreatment standards under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, if specified conditions are met, of an industrial discharger that is a pharmaceutical manufacturing facility which discharged to the Kalamazoo Water Reclamation Plant (an advanced wastewater treatment plant with activated carbon) before enactment of this Act. Requires the Director of FEMA to promulgate a methodology, based on specified criteria, for assessment and collection of fees applicable to persons subject to the FEMA radiological emergency preparedness regulations. Authorizes such fee assessment and collection only during FY 1996. (Sec. 301) Prohibits EPA use of any funds provided in this Act to: (1) carry out any final action by the EPA Administrator or delegate for promulgation of a rule concerning any new standard for radon in drinking water; (2) sign, promulgate, implement or enforce a proposed regulation relating to individual foreign refinery baseline requirements for reformulated gasoline; (3) implement a provision of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (or any pending EPA action to implement such provision) for denial or restriction of the use of defined areas as disposal sites for dredged or fill material; or (4) implement specified requirements of the Clean Air Act with respect to any moderate nonattainment area in which the average daily winter temperature is below 0 degrees Fahrenheit. Declares that this last prohibition does not preclude EPA assistance to the State of Alaska to make progress toward meeting the carbon monoxide standard in such areas and to resolve remaining issues regarding the use of oxygenated fuels in such areas. (Sec. 305) Provides for the transfer of property and the making of a grant for the creation of the Center for Ecology, Research, and Training in Bay City, Michigan. Title IV: Corporations - Authorizes certain corporations and agencies of HUD to make commitments without regard to fiscal year limitations as necessary to carry out provisions under the Government Corporation Control Act. Allows any collections by such corporations and agencies to be used for new loan or mortgage purchase commitments to the extent provided under this Act, with specified exceptions. Makes funds available for the Office of Inspector General of the Resolution Trust Corporation. Title V: General Provisions - Specifies certain uses, limitations, and prohibitions on uses of funds appropriated by this Act. (Sec. 514) Requires FY 1996 pay raises to be absorbed within the levels appropriated in this Act. (Sec. 516) Expresses the sense of the Congress that, to the greatest extent practicable, all equipment and products purchased with funds made available under this Act should be American-made. (Sec. 517) Prohibits the use of funds to implement any cap on reimbursements to grantees for indirect costs, except as published in a specified Office of Management and Budget Circular. (Sec. 519) Requires the Director of FEMA to sell the disaster housing inventory of mobile homes and trailers, and deposit the proceeds in the Treasury. (Sec. 520) Requires that funds necessary to terminate the Office of Consumer Affairs be made available from funds appropriated to the Department of Health and Human Services for FY 1996. Title II (sic): Emergency Supplemental Appropriations for the Fiscal Year Ending September 30, 1996 - Makes supplemental appropriations to: (1) the Department of Agriculture for the Natural Resources Conservation Service, the Consolidated Farm Service Agency, the Rural Housing and Community Development Service, and the Rural Utilities Service; (2) the Department of Commerce for the Economic Development Administration and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration; (3) the Small Business Administration; (4) the Department of the Army for the Corps of Engineers-Civil; (5) the Department of the Interior for the Bureau of Reclamation, the Bureau of Land Management, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the National Park Service, the U.S. Geological Service, and the Bureau of indian Affairs; (6) the Department of Agriculture for the National Forest System; (7) the Department of Transportation for the Office of the Secretary, the Federal Highway Administration, the Federal Railroad Administration, and the Federal Transit Administration; (8) the Department of Housing and Urban Development for Community development grants; (9) the Federal Emergency Management Agency for disaster relief; (10) the President for assistance for Eastern Europe and the Baltic States and for foreign military financing for grants for Jordan; (11) the Department of Defense for military personnel, operation and maintenance, procurement, and for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization security investment program. Rescinds specified funds for: (1) missile procurement, other procurement, and research, development, test and evaluation, Air Force. Title III: Miscellaneous Provisions - Permits the President to make available funds for population planning programs under titles II and IV of the Foreign Operations, Export Financing, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 1996, under specified circumstances. (Sec. 3002) Amends the Interjurisdictional Fisheries Act of 1986 to revise provisions relating to Department of Commerce grants to commercial fishermen for losses resulting from Hurricanes, Hugo, Andrew, or Iniki. (Sec. 3003) Sets forth provisions concerning Bonneville Power Administration refinancing. (Sec. 3005) Sets forth provisions concerning funds apportioned to the State of Vermont for a specified surface transportation program. Title IV: Contingency Appropriations - Makes appropriations, in addition to funds provided elsewhere in this Act to: (1) the Department of Commerce for the National Institute of Standards and Technology; (2) the Department of State for administration of foreign affairs, contributions to international organizations, and contributions for international peacekeeping activities; (3) the Legal Services Corporation; (4) the Department of the Interior for the Bureau of Land Management, the National Park Service, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs; (5) the Department of Energy for energy conservation; (6) the Department of Labor under specified headings found elsewhere in this Act; (7) the department of Veterans Affairs; (8) the Department of Housing and Urban Development; (9) the Environmental Protection Agency; (10) the National Aeronautics and Space Administration; and (11) the National Science Foundation.
Law· HRH.R. 3019 (104th)open
United States · United States Congress · 5 March 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Department of Justice Title II: Department of Commerce and Related Agencies Title III: The Judiciary Title IV: Department of State and Related Agencies Title V: Related Agencies Title VI: General Provisions Title VII: Rescissions Title VIII: Prison Litigation Reform Title I (sic): Department of the Interior Title II: Related Agencies Title III: General Provisions Title I (sic): Department of Labor Title II: Department of Health and Human Services Title III: Department of Education Title IV: Related Agencies Title V: General Provisions Title VI: Additional Appropriations Title I (sic): Department of Veterans Affairs Title II: Department of Housing and Urban Development Title III: Independent Agencies Title IV: Corporations Title V: General Provisions Title II (sic): Emergency Peacekeeping Appropriations Title III: Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Title IV: Contingent Supplemental Appropriations Balanced Budget Down Payment Act, II - Departments of Commerce, Justice, and State, the Judiciary, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1996 - Title I: Department of Justice - Department of Justice Appropriations Act, 1996 - Makes FY 1996 appropriations to the Department of Justice, including funding for the Community Relations Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Immigration and Naturalization Service, and the Federal Prison System. (Sec. 114) Revises provisions of subtitle A (Violent Offender Incarceration and Truth in Sentencing Incentive Grants) of title II (Prisons) of the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994. Directs the Attorney General to provide grants to eligible States to build or expand: (1) correctional facilities to increase the prison bed capacity for the confinement of persons convicted of a "part 1 violent crime" (murder, non-negligent manslaughter, forcible rape, robbery, and aggravated assault) or adjudicated delinquent for an act which, if committed by an adult, would be a part 1 violent crime; (2) temporary or permanent correctional facilities, including facilities on military bases, prison barges, and boot camps, for the confinement of convicted nonviolent offenders and criminal aliens for the purpose of freeing suitable existing prison space for the confinement of persons convicted of a part 1 violent crime; and (3) jails. Authorizes States to enter into regional compacts to carry out such provisions, subject to specified limitations. Specifies that an eligible State may receive either a general grant or a truth-in- sentencing incentive grant, with an exception. Sets forth general eligibility requirements. Requires a State, to be eligible for a general grant, to submit an application to the Attorney General that provides assurances that such State has, since 1993, increased the percentage of persons convicted of a part 1 violent crime sentenced to prison, the average prison time actually to be served in prison by such persons, and the average percentage of time of the sentence to be actually served in prison by persons convicted of a part 1 violent crime and sentenced to prison (with an indeterminant sentencing exception). Requires a State, to be eligible for a truth-in-sentencing incentive grant, to submit such an application providing assurances that: (1) such State has implemented truth-in-sentencing laws that require (or has enacted but has not yet implemented such laws that, within three years, will require) persons convicted of a part 1 violent crime to serve not less than 85 percent of the sentence imposed; or (2) if the State practices indeterminate sentencing, such State demonstrates that the average time served equals at least 85 percent of the sentences established for such crimes under the State's sentencing and release guidelines (with exceptions for geriatric prisoners or those whose medical condition precludes them from posing a threat to the public after a public hearing in which representatives of the public and the prisoner's victims have had an opportunity to be heard regarding a proposed release). Sets forth special rules regarding State: (1) sharing of funds with counties and other units of local government; (2) policies providing for the recognition of the rights and needs of crime victims; (3) use of funds to build or expand juvenile correctional facilities or pretrial detention facilities for juvenile offenders; and (4) use of funds for the privatization of correctional facilities. Sets forth: (1) formulas for the Attorney General to apply in determining the amount of funds that may be granted to each eligible State; and (2) accountability requirements. Authorizes appropriations. Sets forth provisions regarding the distribution, limitations on the use of, and matching requirements with respect to, grant funds. Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) payments for incarceration on tribal lands; (2) payments to eligible States for incarceration of criminal aliens (and authorizes appropriations); (3) support of Federal prisoners in non-Federal institutions (and authorizes appropriations); and (4) reports by the Attorney General to the Congress. Title II: Department of Commerce and Related Agencies - Department of Commerce and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1996 - Makes appropriations for FY 1996 for the Department of Commerce (Department) and related agencies and activities, including: (1) the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative; (2) the International Trade Commission and international trade activities; (3) export administration; (4) the Economic Development Administration; (5) minority business development; (6) economic and statistical analysis and administration; (7) the Bureau of the Census and related activities; (8) the National Telecommunications and Information Administration; (9) public broadcasting facilities, planning, and construction; (10) the Patent and Trademark Office; (11) the National Institute of Standards and Technology and related services and activities; (12) the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (including a transfer of funds); (13) various government trust funds related to ocean and water resources development and activities; (14) technology policy and administration; and (15) the Office of the Inspector General. Rescinds $75 million of amounts available to the National Institute of Standards and Technology for the construction of research facilities. (Sec. 201) Allows advance payments to be made for authorized Department activities only upon certification by Department officials that such payments are in the public interest. (Sec. 206) Directs the Secretary or other appropriate agency head, if legislation is enacted to dismantle or reorganize the Department, to report to the appropriations committees within 90 days thereafter a plan for transferring funds provided to the Department in this Act to the appropriate successor organizations. Authorizes the Secretary to use any available funds to carry out the legislation, including voluntary separation incentives if duly authorized. (Sec. 207) States that the transfer of title of the Rutland City Industrial Complex to Hilinex, Vermont, shall not require compensation to the Government for its share of such property. (Sec. 208) Directs the Secretary to: (1) commence and complete a demolition of existing structures and an environmental cleanup of the Central Foundry Property in Holt, Alabama; and (2) transfer such property to the Tuscaloosa County Industrial Development Authority. (Sec. 219) Requires any costs incurred by a department or agency funded under this title resulting from personnel actions taken in response to funding reductions included in this title to be absorbed within the total budgetary resources available to such department or agency. (Sec. 210) Prohibits funds to develop new fishery management plans approved by a Regional Fishery Management Council until the payment of specified offsetting fees. Title III: The Judiciary - Judiciary Appropriations Act, 1996 - Appropriates FY 1996 funds for activities of the Judiciary, including: (1) the Supreme Court; (2) the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit; (3) the U.S. Court of International Trade; (4) the Courts of Appeals, district courts, and other judicial services; (5) the Administrative Office of the United States Courts (Administrative Office); (6) the Federal Judicial Center; (7) Judicial Retirement Funds; and (8) the United States Sentencing Commission. (Sec. 305) Revises provisions regarding judicial conferences of the circuits to allow (current law requires) the chief judge to summon judges to and preside at, and every judge to attend and remain throughout, such conferences. Title IV: Department of State and Related Agencies - Department of State and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1996 - Appropriates funds for FY 1996 for the Department of State and related agencies, activities, and programs, including: (1) diplomatic and consular programs; (2) the Capital Investment Fund; (3) the Office of the Inspector General; (4) payments to the Foreign Service Retirement and Disability Fund; (5) contributions to international organizations, peacekeeping activities, conferences and commissions; (6) a grant to the Asia Foundation; (7) the Arms Control and Disarmament Agency (ACDA); (8) the United States Information Agency (USIA); (9) the Eisenhower Exchange Fellowship Program Trust Fund; (10) the Israeli Arab Scholarship Program; (11) the American Studies Collections Endowment Fund; (12) international broadcasting operations, including broadcasting to Cuba; and (13) the National Endowment for Democracy. (Sec. 401) Sets forth authorized and prohibited uses of funds appropriated under this Act. (Sec. 404) Requires the Secretary of State and the Directors of USIA and ACDA, within 90 days after the enactment of legislation consolidating, reorganizing, or downsizing the functions of such department and agencies, to submit to the appropriations committees a proposal for transferring or rescinding funds appropriated herein for such consolidated functions. Authorizes such officials to use any available funds to cover the consolidation costs required by such legislation, including voluntary separation incentives duly authorized. (Sec. 407) Repeals Federal provisions limiting the use of endowment trust income under the Eisenhower Exchange Fellowship Act. (Sec. 408) Expresses the sense of the Senate that no funds made available under this Act should be used for the deployment of combat- equipped U.S. military personnel for any ground operations in Bosnia and Herzegovina, except in specific limited circumstances. (Sec. 409) Requires costs incurred by a department or agency funded under this title resulting from personnel actions taken in response to funding reductions included in this title to be absorbed within the total budgetary resources available to such department or agency. Title V: Related Agencies - Appropriates funds for FY 1996 for: (1) the Maritime Administration of the Department of Transportation; (2) the Commission for the Preservation of America's Heritage Abroad; (3) the Commission on Civil Rights; (4) the Commission on Immigration Reform; (5) the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe; (6) the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission; (7) the Federal Communications Commission; (8) the Federal Maritime Commission; (9) the Federal Trade Commission; (10) the Japan-United States Friendship Commission; (11) the Legal Services Corporation; (12) the Marine Mammal Commission; (13) the Martin Luther King, Jr. Federal Holiday Commission; (14) the Securities and Exchange Commission; (15) the Small Business Administration; (16) certain accounts and revolving funds; and (17) the State Justice Institute. (Sec. 501) Places limitations on the use of funds by the Legal Services Corporation. Directs the Corporation to: (1) implement a system of competitive awards of grants and contracts that will apply to all contracts for the delivery of legal assistance awarded by the Corporation after March 31, 1996; and (2) promulgate regulations to implement a competitive selection process for the recipients of such grants and contracts. Prohibits the Corporation from: (1) engaging in litigation that is in any way intended to or has the effect of altering or revising any legislative, judicial, or elective district; (2) attempting in any way to influence the issuance of any executive order or regulation or the passage or defeat of any legislation; (3) bringing a class action suit against the Federal Government or any State; (4) providing assistance to any alien unless the alien is lawfully present in this country or meets other specified requirements; (5) supporting or conducting programs to advocate particular public policies or encourage political activities; or (6) participating in any litigation with respect to abortion or any prisoner. Sets forth prohibited uses of funds appropriated to the Corporation. Directs the Corporation to report every 60 days to the appropriations committees setting forth the status of certain legal assistance cases and matters brought through the Corporation. Requires an audit (containing specified information) to be conducted of each person or entity receiving financial assistance from the Corporation. Allows the Corporation access to appropriate legal and financial documents for purposes of such audits, while requiring appropriate confidentiality. Requires such audits for fiscal years beginning on or after January 1, 1996. (Sec. 510) Provides authorized funds transfers, and transfer limits, for appropriations made to the Small Business Administration. Title VI: General Provisions - Sets forth authorized and prohibited uses of funds appropriated by this Act. (Sec. 607) Expresses the sense of the Congress that equipment and products purchased with funds from this Act should be American-made. (Sec. 609) Prohibits funds from this Act from being used to pay for costs incurred for: (1) opening or operating any U.S. diplomatic or consular post (post) in the Socialist Republic of Vietnam that was not operating on July 11, 1995; (2) expanding any such post that was in operation on such date; or (3) increasing the number of personnel assigned to such post above the level existing on such date, unless the President certifies that the Vietnamese Government is fully cooperating with the United States in activities relating to the investigation and recovery of missing U.S. military personnel from the Vietnam area. (Sec. 611) Prohibits the use of funds from this Act to provide specified amenities or personal comforts in the Federal prison system. (Sec. 614) Amends the Federal criminal code to terminate the Advisory Corrections Council. (Sec. 615) Requires costs incurred by a department or agency funded under this title resulting from personnel actions taken in response to funding reductions included in this title to be absorbed within the total budgetary resources available to such department or agency. Title VII: Rescissions - Rescinds specified funds from unobligated balances within certain accounts of: (1) the Department of Justice; (2) the State Department; and (3) USIA. Title VIII: Prison Litigation Reform - Prison Litigation Reform Act of 1995 - Revises Federal criminal code provisions regarding remedies for prison crowding to substitute provisions regarding remedies for prison conditions. Prohibits: (1) prospective relief in any civil action regarding prison conditions from extending further than necessary to correct the violation of the Federal right of particular plaintiffs; and (2) the court from granting or approving any such relief unless that relief is narrowly drawn, extends no further than necessary to correct the violation of the Federal right, and is the least intrusive means necessary to correct the violation. Directs the court to give substantial weight to any adverse impact on public safety or the operation of a criminal justice system caused by the relief. Prohibits the court from ordering prospective relief that requires or permits a government official to exceed his or her authority under, or that otherwise violates, State or local law, unless: (1) Federal law permits such relief to be ordered in violation of State or local law; (2) the relief is necessary to correct the violation of a Federal right; and (3) no other relief will correct the violation of the Federal right. Authorizes the court to enter a temporary restraining order or an order for preliminary injunctive relief, which shall automatically expire 90 days after its entry, with exceptions. Directs the court to give substantial weight to any adverse impact on public safety or operation of a criminal justice system caused by the preliminary relief, and to respect principles of comity in tailoring any such relief. Prohibits a prisoner release order from being entered unless: (1) a court has previously entered an order for less intrusive relief that has failed to remedy the deprivation of the Federal right and the defendant has had a reasonable amount of time to comply with the previous court orders; and (2) it is entered by a three-judge court, which finds by clear and convincing evidence that crowding is the primary cause of the violation and no other relief will remedy it. Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) termination or modification of relief; (2) settlements; (3) State law remedies; (4) procedure for motions affecting prospective relief; and (5) the use of special masters. (Sec. 803) Amends the Civil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act to require the Attorney General to personally sign any complaint filed, or any certification or motion to intervene made, to initiate a civil action under the Act. Revises provisions of the Act to prohibit any action from being brought by a prisoner with respect to prison conditions until available administrative remedies are exhausted. Specifies that the failure of a State to adopt or adhere to an administrative grievance procedure shall not constitute the basis for an action. Directs the court to dismiss any such action if satisfied that the action is frivolous or malicious, fails to state a claim upon which relief can be granted, or seeks monetary relief from a defendant who is immune from such relief (and authorizes the court, in such instances, to dismiss the underlying claim without first requiring exhaustion of administrative remedies). Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) limits on the award of attorney fees; (2) limits on recovery; (3) hearings; and (4) waiver of reply. (Sec. 804) Amends the Federal judicial code to require a prisoner: (1) of a Federal, State, or local institution seeking to bring a civil action or appeal a judgment in a civil action or proceeding without prepayment of fees or security to submit a certified copy of the prisoner's trust fund account statement for the six-month period immediately preceding the filing of the complaint or notice of appeal, obtained from the appropriate official of each institution at which the prisoner is or was confined; and (2) who brings a civil action or files an appeal in forma pauperis to pay the full amount of a filing fee (and directs the court to assess and, when funds exist, to collect, as a partial payment of any court fees required by law, an initial partial filing fee of 20 percent of the greater of the average monthly deposits to the prisoner's account or the average monthly balance in the prisoner's account for such six-month period). Sets forth similar provisions regarding the payment of costs by the prisoner. Revises provisions regarding the appointment of counsel in forma pauperis proceedings to require the court to dismiss the case at any time if the allegation of poverty is untrue or if the action or appeal is frivolous or malicious, fails to state a claim on which relief may be granted, or seeks monetary relief against a defendant who is immune from such relief. Makes an exception to the discharge of debt in a bankruptcy proceeding for a fee imposed by a court for the filing of a case, motion, complaint, or appeal, or for other costs and expenses assessed with respect to such filing, regardless of an assertion of poverty by the debtor or the debtor's status as a prisoner. Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) successive claims; (2) judicial screening of complaints in civil actions brought by prisoners against governmental entities; and (3) limits of Federal tort claims by prisoners. (Sec. 807) Requires any compensatory damages award to a prisoner in connection with a civil action brought against any Federal, State, or local correctional facility or official or agent thereof to be paid directly to satisfy any outstanding restitution orders pending against the prisoner, with the remainder forwarded to the prisoner. (Sec. 808) Provides for notice to crime victims of pending damage awards. (Sec. 809) Authorizes the court to revoke earned release credit under specified circumstances. Amends the Federal criminal code to: (1) direct the Bureau of Prisons, in awarding credit towards service of sentence for satisfactory behavior, to consider whether the prisoner has earned or is making satisfactory progress toward earning a high school diploma or an equivalent degree; and (2) provide that credit awarded after the date of enactment of this Act shall vest on the date the prisoner is released from custody. Department of the Interior and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1996 - Title I: Department of the Interior - Makes appropriations for the FY 1996 operation of the Department of the Interior. Prohibits this Act's funds being spent by the National Park Service for activities in direct response to the United Nations Biodiversity Initiative in the United States. Authorizes the National Park Service (NPS) to transfer NPS funds to State, local, and tribal governments, other public entities, educational institutions, and private nonprofit organizations to carry out NPS programs. Directs the National Park Service to conduct a Feasibility Study for a northern access route into Denali National Park and Preserve in Alaska. Restricts or regulates: (1) the use of this Act's research resources funds regarding the Endangered Species Act; and (2) activities and funding relating to the National Biological Survey. Provides funding for the closure of the U.S. Bureau of Mines, transferring specified functions to the Secretary of Energy. Sets forth the uses and limitations for such appropriations, including use of Bureau of Indian Affairs school system funds. Provides for a report concerning Indian tribes and their compliance with provisions of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. (Sec. 109) Repeals the Outer Banks Protection Act. (Sec. 118) Sets forth provisions affecting the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, American Samoa, the Virgin Islands, the Republic of Palau, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of the Marshall Islands concerning infrastructure assistance. Title II: Related Agencies - Makes appropriations for FY 1996 for the Department of Agriculture for the Forest Service. Prohibits the use of funds to implement any reorganization or "reinvention" of the Forest Service. Makes appropriations for the Department of Energy for, among other things, fossil energy research and development, the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR), and the SPR Account. Makes appropriations to the Department of Health and Human Services for the Indian Health Service for Indian health services and facilities. Appropriates funds to: (1) the Department of Education for the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education for Indian Education; (2) the Office of Navajo and Hopi Relocation; (3) the Institute of American Indian and Alaska Native Culture and Arts Development; (4) the Smithsonian Institution; (5) construction and improvements at the National Zoological Park; (6) restoration and repair of buildings owned or occupied by the Smithsonian Institution; (7) the National Gallery of Art; (8) the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts; and (9) the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars. Makes appropriations for: (1) the National Foundation on the Arts and the Humanities; (2) the Institute of Museum Services; (3) the Commission of Fine Arts; (4) National Capital arts and cultural affairs; (5) the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation; (6) the National Capital Planning Commission; (7) the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial Commission; and (8) the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Council. Requires that funds made available in previous years for the Pennsylvania Avenue Development Corporation be available for operating and administrative expenses and for the orderly closure of the Corporation. Sets forth uses and prohibitions on such funds. Title III: General Provisions - Sets forth uses and limitations of funds appropriated by this Act. (Sec. 307) Requires expenditures under this Act to comply with the Buy American Act. Expresses the sense of the Congress that entities receiving Federal assistance should purchase only American-made equipment and products. Prohibits Federal contracts with persons found to have falsely labeled a product with a "Made in America" inscription. (Sec. 312) Prohibits any funds from this Act from being used for the AmeriCorps program. (Sec. 313) Mandates dissolution of the Pennsylvania Avenue Development Corporation. (Sec. 314) Regulates use of any Act's funds for the Interior Columbia Basin Ecosystem Management Project. (Sec. 315) Directs the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture to implement a fee program to demonstrate the feasibility of user-generated cost recovery for the operation and maintenance of recreation areas or sites and habitat enhancement projects on Federal lands. (Sec. 322) Prohibits, with exceptions, use of this Act's funds to accept or process applications for a patent for any mining or mill site claim located under the general mining laws. (Sec. 324) Prohibits funding the Office of Forestry and Economic Development after December 31, 1995. (Sec. 326) Provides for a land exchange in Washington State. Authorizes appropriations as necessary to carry out this Act. (Sec. 327) Provides for the establishment of the Timber Sales Pipeline Restoration Fund. (Sec. 328) Places limitations on the type of grant awards that can be made by the National Endowment for the Arts. (Sec. 329) Delays the implementation of regulations concerning livestock grazing on lands administered by the Forest Service. (Sec. 330) Increases penalties for the use of a hazardous or injurious device on Federal or Indian lands. (Sec. 331) Prohibits, notwithstanding any other provision of law, the use of funds available to the National Endowment for the Arts pursuant to this Act to promote, disseminate, sponsor, or produce any material or performance that: (1) denigrates the religious objects or religious beliefs of the adherents of a particular religion; or (2) depicts or describes, in a patently offensive way, sexual or excretory activities or organs. Requires that this prohibition be strictly applied without regard to the content or viewpoint of the material or performance. (Sec. 333) Prohibits using this Act's funds to review or modify sourcing areas previously approved under specified provisions of the Forest Resources Conservation and Shortage Relief Act of 1990 or to enforce or implement specified Federal regulations. Prohibits adoption of policies that would restrain domestic transportation or processing of timber from private lands or impose additional accountability requirements on any timber. Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1996 - Title I: Department of Labor - Department of Labor Appropriations Act, 1996 - Makes appropriations for FY 1996 for agencies within the Department of Labor. Rescinds unobligated advances to the Employment Security Administration account of the Unemployment Trust Fund. (Sec. 102) Amends the Job Training Partnership Act to repeal the prohibition on using appropriated funds to carry out any contract with a nongovernmental entity to administer or manage a Civilian Conservation Center of the Jobs Corps. Title II: Department of Health and Human Services - Department of Health and Human Services Appropriations Act, 1996 - Makes appropriations for FY 1996 for agencies within the Department of Health and Human Services. Rescinds appropriations made to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for immunization activities. Rescinds appropriations for low income home energy assistance. Provides limitations on the use of appropriated funds. (Sec. 207) Requires a transfer of funds for the security protection of the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Title III: Department of Education - Department of Education Appropriations Act, 1996 - Makes appropriations for FY 1996 for agencies and programs within the Department of Education. Sets forth general provisions relating to the use of appropriated funds. (Sec. 301) Prohibits appropriated funds from being used to transport teachers or students in order to: (1) overcome racial imbalance in any school or school system; or (2) carry out a racial desegregation plan. (Sec. 303) Prohibits the use of funds to prevent the implementation of programs of voluntary prayer and meditation in the public schools. Title IV: Related Agencies - Makes appropriations for FY 1996 for the following agencies or programs: (1) Armed Forces Retirement Home; (2) Corporation for National and Community Service; (3) Corporation for Public Broadcasting; (4) Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service; (5) Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission; (6) National Commission on Libraries and Information Science; (7) National Council on Disability; (8) National Education Goals Panel; (9) National Labor Relations Board; (10) National Mediation Board; (11) Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission; (12) Physician Payment Review Commission; (13) Prospective Payment Assessment Commission; (14) Social Security Administration; (15) Railroad Retirement Board; and (16) United States Institute of Peace. Title V: General Provisions - Sets forth provisions on the use of the appropriated funds. (Sec. 505) Prohibits the use of funds to carry out any program of distributing sterile needles for the hypodermic injection of any illegal drug unless the Surgeon General determines that such programs are effective in preventing the spread of HIV and do not encourage the use of illegal drugs. (Sec. 506) Expresses the sense of the Congress that, to the greatest extent practicable, all equipment and funds purchased under this Act should be American-made. (Sec. 507) Imposes a disclosure requirement on grantees receiving Federal funds. (Sec. 508) Prohibits the use of funds to perform abortions except to save the life of the mother or where the pregnancy is the result of rape or incest. (Sec. 509) Permits States to not perform abortions, except where the life of the mother would be endangered if the fetus were carried to term. (Sec. 511) Sets forth limitations on the use of appropriated funds. (Sec. 515) Prohibits appropriated funds being used by any Federal program or to assist any State when such Federal program or State discriminates against any health care entity that refuses to undergo training in the performance of abortions. Title VI: Additional Appropriations - Makes supplemental appropriations for the Health Care Financing Administration, the Office of the Secretary, and the Social Security Administration. Departments of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 1996 - Title I: Department of Veterans Affairs - Makes appropriations for FY 1996 to the Department of Veterans Affairs. Provides for the use of such appropriations. Sets forth various administrative provisions, including specified limitations, with respect to availability, transfers, and use of such appropriations. (Sec. 103) Prohibits availability of such appropriations for: (1) purchase of any site for or toward the construction of any new hospital or home (except the appropriations for construction of major or minor projects or the parking revolving fund); and (2) hospitalization or examination of any persons except beneficiaries entitled under the laws bestowing such benefits to veterans, unless reimbursement is made to the appropriation at rates fixed by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs. (Sec. 107) Authorizes the Secretary to transfer jurisdiction and control of certain land in Wichita, Kansas, to the Secretary of Transportation. Title II: Department of Housing and Urban Development - Makes appropriations for FY 1996 to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Provides for the use of such appropriations. (Sec. 201) Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 (USHA), as amended by the Emergency Supplemental Appropriations for Additional Disaster Assistance, for Anti-terrorism Initiatives, for Assistance in the Recovery from the Tragedy that Occurred at Oklahoma City, and Rescissions Act, 1995, to authorize public housing agencies to provide modernization assistance to mixed-income developments. (Sec. 202) Provides for conversion of certain public housing to vouchers. Requires each PHA to: (1) identify any distressed public housing developments that meet specified criteria; and (2) develop and carry out a plan in conjunction with the Secretary for their removal from the PHA inventory and the annual contributions contract, over a period of up to five years (with possible extensions for up to another five years in certain circumstances). Directs the Secretary to make authority available to a PHA to provide section 8 tenant-based assistance to families residing in any development that is removed from the PHA inventory and the annual contributions contract. Requires each conversion plan to require the PHA to notify and counsel families residing in such a development, and ensure that they are offered tenant-based or project-based assistance and relocated, as necessary, to other decent, safe, sanitary, and affordable housing which is, to the maximum extent practicable, housing of their choice. (Sec. 203) Repeals a "take one-take all" requirement under USHA that a housing owner who accepts a Section 8 voucher holder as a tenant must accept all others. Exempts housing unit owners participating in the certificate and voucher programs from certain notice requirements relating to rent increases or termination of their assistance payment contracts with a PHA. Limits certain requirements to the duration of a lease. (Sec. 204) Directs the Secretary to conduct a demonstration program under which up to 30 selected PHAs (including Indian housing authorities) may administer the public or Indian housing program and the section 8 housing assistance payments program (for a total number of public housing units up to 25,000) in ways which are designed to reduce costs and achieve greater cost-effectiveness in Federal expenditures, provide incentives for heads of households to become economically self-sufficient, and increase housing choices for lower- income families. (Sec. 205) Amends the Multifamily Housing Finance Improvement Act, under the housing and Community Development Act of 1992, to extend the risk-sharing and housing finance agency pilot demonstration programs but reduce the number of units involved in such programs during FY 1996. (Sec. 206) Authorizes the Secretary of HUD to delegate, during FY 1996, to one or more entities the authority to carry out some or all of the Secretary's responsibilities and functions in connection with the foreclosure of HUD-held mortgages under the National Housing Act (NHA). (Sec. 207) Authorizes the Secretary, during FY 1996, to sell or otherwise transfer multifamily mortgages held by the Secretary under the National Housing Act to State housing finance agencies, in connection with the risk-sharing or the housing finance agency pilot demonstration program under the Housing and Community Development Act of 1992, without regard to certain unit limitations. (Sec. 211) Amends section 8 of the USHA to provide for the transfer of budget authority. Directs the Secretary, if a section 8 assistance contract, other than a contract for tenant-based assistance, is terminated, not renewed, or expires, to transfer any budget authority remaining in that contract to another contract, in order to provide continued assistance to eligible families, including those receiving the benefit of the project-based assistance at the time of the termination. (Sec. 209) Makes certain amendments (made by the Departments of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 1995) relating to documentation of multifamily refinancings under the National Housing Act effective during FY 1996 and thereafter. (Sec. 210) Directs the Secretary, in FY 1996 and 1997, to initiate a demonstration program with respect to multifamily projects: (1) whose owners agree to participate; (2) whose mortgages are insured under the NHA and assisted under section 8 of the USHA; and (3) whose present section 8 rents are, in the aggregate, exceed the fair market rent of the locality in which the project is located. Requires these programs to be designed to test the feasibility and desirability of the goal of ensuring, to the maximum extent practicable, that the debt service and operating expenses, including adequate reserves, attributable to such multifamily projects can be supported with or without mortgage insurance under the NHA and with or without above-market rents and utilizing project-based assistance or, with the consent of the property owner, tenant-based assistance, while taking into account the need for assistance of low and very low-income families in such projects. Authorizes the Secretary to use arrangements with third parties, under which the Secretary may provide for their assumption of some or all of the Secretary's functions, obligations, and benefits. Sets forth goals and demonstration approaches for such programs. Authorizes the Secretary to: (1) manage and dispose of multifamily properties and multifamily mortgages for properties assisted under section 8 with rents above 110 percent of fair market rents; and (2) delegate to one or more entities the authority to carry out some or all of the Secretary's functions and responsibilities in connection with the foreclosure of mortgages held under the NHA. Authorizes the Secretary, subject to the consent of specified parties, to: (1) remove, relinquish, extinguish, modify, or agree to the removal of any mortgage, regulatory agreement, project-based assistance contract, use agreement, or restriction that had been imposed or required by the Secretary, including restrictions on distributions of income which would interfere with the ability of the project to operate without above market rents; (2) require an owner of a property assisted under the section 8 new construction-substantial rehabilitation program to apply any accumulated residual receipts toward effecting program purposes; (3) enter into contracts to purchase reinsurance, or enter into participations or otherwise transfer economic interest in contracts of insurance or in the premiums paid, or due to be paid, on such insurance to third parties; (4) offer project-based assistance with rents at or below fair market rents for the locality and negotiate other terms acceptable to the Secretary and the project owner; (5) offer to pay all or a portion of the project's debt service, including payments monthly from the appropriate Insurance Fund, for the full remaining term of the insured mortgage; (6) forgive and cancel any mortgage debt insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) that a demonstration program property cannot carry at market rents while bearing full operating costs; and (7) for demonstration program properties that cannot carry full operating costs (excluding debt service) at market rents, approve project-based rents sufficient to carry such full operating costs (and offer to pay the full debt service in the specified manner). Directs the Secretary to develop procedures to provide appropriate and timely notice to local government officials, the community, and the tenants of the project. Limits such demonstration program authority with respect to mortgages to not more than 15,000 units. Prohibits the expansion of such demonstration until specified reports are submitted to the Congress. Appropriates funds for the cost of modifying loans held or guaranteed by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). (Sec. 212) Requires all remaining obligated and unobligated balances in the Renewal of Expiring Section 8 Subsidy Contracts account on September 30, 1995, to be transferred to and merged with the obligated and unobligated balances, respectively, of the Annual Contributions for Assisted Housing account. (Sec. 213) Directs the Secretary to cancel the indebtedness of the Hubbard Hospital Authority of Hubbard, Texas, of the Groveton Texas Hospital Authority, and of the Hepzibah Public Service District of Hepzibah, West Virginia, relating to specified public facilities loans under title II of the Housing Amendments of 1955. (Sec. 214) Determines the Paul Mirabile Center, San Diego, California, to satisfy HUD continuum care requirements. Treats such Center as entirely residential rental property consisting solely of residential units used exclusively to facilitate the transition of homeless individuals to independent living within 24 months. (Sec. 215) Limits to no more than seven Assistant Secretaries and 77 schedule C and 20 non-career senior executive service employees the number of such Assistant Secretaries and employees in HUD by the end of FY 1996. (Sec. 216) Requires specified funds to be made available to: (1) the County of San Bernardino in California to assist with the expansion of the Los Padrinos Gang Intervention Program and the Unity Home Domestic Violence Shelter (from remaining funds made available to Bethlehem House in Highland, California, for site planning and loan acquisition); and (2) the University of Toledo in Toledo, Ohio, for the renovation and rehabilitation of an industrial building (from specified funds for removal of asbestos from an abandoned public school building in that city). (Sec. 217) Amends the Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act of 1992 to revise eligibility criteria to determine which housing qualifies for lead-based paint abatement grants. (Sec. 218) Amends USHA to repeal the six-year limitation on the extension period for Federal sharing of utility cost savings with PHAs under the program of annual contributions for operation of low-income housing. (Sec. 219) Amends NHA, with respect to the housing program for moderate income and displaced families, to extend through FY 1996 the period for mortgage note sales. (Sec. 220) Amends the Department of Housing and Urban Development-Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 1988, to repeal the prohibition (Frost-Leland) against the use of funds for demolishing certain historic buildings in Dallas and Houston, Texas. (Sec. 222) Prohibits the use of any funds in this Act: from being used: (1) by the Secretary to impose any sanction or penalty because of the enactment of any State or local law or regulation declaring English as the official language; or (2) for lobbying activities as prohibited by law. (Sec. 223) Transfers to the Department of Justice all HUD functions, activities, and responsibilities relating to title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968, as amended by the Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988, and the Fair Housing Act, including any rights guaranteed under the Fair Housing Act and any functions relating to the Fair Housing Initiatives program under the Housing and Community Development Act of 1987, along with adequate personnel and resources allocated to any such activity. (Sec. 224) Prohibits the use of any funds provided in this Act during FY 1996 to investigate or prosecute under the Fair Housing Act any otherwise lawful activity engaged in by one or more persons, including the filing or maintaining of non-frivolous legal action, that is engaged in solely for the purposes of achieving or preventing action by a Government official, entity, or court of competent jurisdiction. (Sec. 225) Prohibits the use of any funds provided in this Act to take any enforcement action with respect to a complaint of discrimination under the Fair Housing Act on the basis of familial status and which involves an occupancy standard established by the housing provider, except to the extent that it is found that there has been discrimination in contravention of the standards provided a specified HUD Memorandum, or until such time that HUD issues a final rule. (Sec. 226) Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 with respect to the eligibility of housing reconstruction costs for expenditure of Community Development Block Grant funds. Title III: Independent Agencies - Makes appropriations for FY 1996 to the: (1) American Battle Monuments Commission; (2) Consumer Product Safety Commission; (3) Court of Veterans Appeals; (4) Department of Defense-Civil for cemeterial expenses, Army; (5) Environmental Protection Agency; (6) Executive Office of the President for the Office of Science and Technology Policy; (7) Council on Environmental Quality and Office of Environmental Quality; (8) Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA); (9) General Services Administration for the Consumer Information Center; (10) National Aeronautics and Space Administration; (11) National Credit Union Administration for the obligations of the Central Liquidity Facility; (12) National Science Foundation; (13) Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation; and (14) Selective Service System. Makes appropriations for FY 1996 for necessary expenses for the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) to terminate all programs, activities, and initiatives under the National and Community Service Act of 1990, and to resolve all responsibilities and obligations in connection with the CNCS and its Office of Inspector General. Authorizes exemption from categorical pretreatment standards under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, if specified conditions are met, of an industrial discharger that is a pharmaceutical manufacturing facility which discharged to the Kalamazoo Water Reclamation Plant (an advanced wastewater treatment plant with activated carbon) before enactment of this Act. Requires the Director of FEMA to promulgate a methodology, based on specified criteria, for assessment and collection of fees applicable to persons subject to the FEMA radiological emergency preparedness regulations. Authorizes such fee assessment and collection only during FY 1996. (Sec. 301) Prohibits EPA use of any funds provided in this Act to: (1) carry out any final action by the EPA Administrator or delegate for promulgation of a rule concerning any new standard for radon in drinking water; (2) sign, promulgate, implement or enforce a proposed regulation relating to individual foreign refinery baseline requirements for reformulated gasoline; (3) implement a provision of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (or any pending EPA action to implement such provision) for denial or restriction of the use of defined areas as disposal sites for dredged or fill material; or (4) implement specified requirements of the Clean Air Act with respect to any moderate nonattainment area in which the average daily winter temperature is below 0 degrees Fahrenheit. Declares that this last prohibition does not preclude EPA assistance to the State of Alaska to make progress toward meeting the carbon monoxide standard in such areas and to resolve remaining issues regarding the use of oxygenated fuels in such areas. Title IV: Corporations - Authorizes certain corporations and agencies of HUD to make commitments without regard to fiscal year limitations as necessary to carry out provisions under the Government Corporation Control Act. Allows any collections by such corporations and agencies to be used for new loan or mortgage purchase commitments to the extent provided under this Act, with specified exceptions. Makes funds available for the Office of Inspector General of the Resolution Trust Corporation. Title V: General Provisions - Specifies certain uses, limitations, and prohibitions on uses of funds appropriated by this Act. (Sec. 514) Requires FY 1996 pay raises to be absorbed within the levels appropriated in this Act. (Sec. 516) Expresses the sense of the Congress that, to the greatest extent practicable, all equipment and products purchased with funds made available under this Act should be American-made. (Sec. 517) Prohibits the use of funds to implement any cap on reimbursements to grantees for indirect costs, except as published in a specified Office of Management and Budget Circular. (Sec. 519) Requires the Director of FEMA to sell the disaster housing inventory of mobile homes and trailers, and deposit the proceeds in the Treasury. (Sec. 520) Requires that funds necessary to terminate the Office of Consumer Affairs be made available from funds appropriated to the Department of Health and Human Services for FY 1996. (Sec. 111)(sic) Amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to allow the import of a drug, food, or food additive if it is to be incorporated into a product that will be exported as specified. Title II: Emergency Peacekeeping Appropriations (sic) - Makes supplemental appropriations for: (1) the Department of State for the administration of foreign affairs; (2) the United States Information Agency for salaries and expenses; (3) the President for the Agency For International development for assistance for Eastern Europe and Baltic States and for the Foreign Military Financing Program; (4) the Export- Import Bank of the United States; and (5) the Department of Defense for military construction, military personnel, operation and maintenance, and procurement. Rescinds funds appropriated for: (1) missile and other procurement, Air Force; (2) research, development, test and evaluation, for the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Defense-Wide. Title III: Emergency Supplemental Appropriations - Makes supplemental appropriations to the Department of Agriculture for: (1) the Natural Resources Conservation Service, the Consolidated Farm Service Agency, the Rural Housing and Community Development Service, and the Rural Utilities Service. Makes supplemental appropriations to: (1) the Small Business Administration for the Disasters Loans Program Account; (2) the Department of the Army, Corps of Engineers-Civil; and (3) the Department of the Interior for the Bureau of Reclamation. Provides for a transfer of funds to the Alaska Power Administration. Makes supplemental appropriations to the Department of the Interior for the Bureau of land Management, the U.S. Fish and wildlife service, the national Park Service, the U.S. Geological Survey, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, and for territorial and international affairs. Makes supplemental appropriations to the Department of Agriculture for the Forest Service. Makes supplemental appropriations to the Department of Transportation for the Federal Highway Administration and the Federal Transit Administration. Makes supplemental appropriations to the Panama Canal Commission. Makes supplemental appropriations to the Federal emergency Management Agency for disaster relief. Title IV: Contingent Supplemental Appropriations - Makes contingent supplemental appropriations to: (1) the Department of Commerce for the National Institute of Standards and Technology; (2) the Department of State for international organizations and conferences, including contributions for international peacekeeping activities; (3) the Department of Labor for the Employment and Training Administration; (4) the Department of Health and Human Services for substance abuse and mental health services; (5) the Department of Education for education reform, education for the disadvantaged, school improvement programs, and education research, statistics and improvement; (6) the Department of Veterans Affairs for departmental administration; (7) the Department of Housing and Urban Development for housing programs, community planning and development grants, the Corporation for National and Community Service, and the Office of the Inspector General; (8) the Environmental Protection Agency programs and management, buildings and facilities, the Hazardous Substance Superfund, State and tribal assistance grants; (9) the Executive Office of the President for the Council on and Office of Environmental Quality; (10) the National Science Foundation; and (11) the Department of the Treasury for community development financial institutions.
Bill· HRH.R. 3008 (104th)open
United States · United States Congress · 5 March 1996
Helium Privatization Act of 1996 - Amends the Helium Act to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to: (1) enter into agreements with private parties for the recovery and disposal of helium on Federal lands; (2) grant leasehold rights to such helium; (3) store and transport crude helium; and (4) maintain and operate existing crude helium storage at the Bureau of Mines Cliffside Field. Directs the Secretary to: (1) cease producing, refining, and marketing refined helium; and (2) dispose of all facilities, equipment, and Federal property interests relating to refined helium activities. Requires the Secretary to impose fees for helium storage, withdrawal, or transportation services. Prescribes guidelines for: (1) the purchase of helium by Federal agencies from certain private persons; and (2) the sale of crude helium by the Secretary. Requires the Secretary to make crude helium sales in amounts that will cause minimum market disruption. Mandates that proceeds from helium sales be paid to the Treasury. (Sec. 5) Instructs the Secretary to eliminate helium stockpiles by a prescribed deadline. Repeals the Secretary's authority to borrow under the Helium Act. (Sec. 7) Directs the Secretary of the Interior to convey to the Texas Plains Girl Scout Council for consideration of one dollar specified lands in Potter County, Texas, reserving easements to the United States for pipeline rights-of-way.
Bill· SS. 1581 (104th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 29 February 1996
Directs the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to: (1) reinstate a specified license for an Ohio hydroelectric project at the licensee's request, effective September 25, 1993; and (2) extend the time period during which such licensee is required to commence project construction so that the period terminates on September 24, 1999.
Bill· HRH.R. 2993 (104th)open
United States · United States Congress · 29 February 1996
Forrestal Institute Act of 1997 - Authorizes the Secretary of Defense to establish the Forrestal Institute as a District of Columbia not-for-profit entity. Defines "Institute project" to mean any construction, operation, refurbishing, rebuilding, upgrading, or retrofitting of a defense energy facility or any environmental study or facility audit performed by a private party for such a facility. (Sec. 105) Sets forth the duties of the Institute, including: (1) entering into contracts to provide any military department an Institute project through the use of private parties (requires the Institute to procure all subcontracts, supplies, and services involving expenditures of over $100,000 through the use of competitive procedures approved by its Board of Directors); and (2) in lieu of performing such contracts directly, to negotiate contracts between or among the military departments and one or more private parties and to solicit and evaluate proposals and bids for such contracts. Prohibits the Institute from investing in an Institute project or otherwise acquiring or retaining an ownership interest in such project or its associated stream of revenues, or from performing the facility audit, design, construction, rebuilding, upgrading, retrofitting, or long- term operation of an Institute project, except through the use of private parties. (Sec. 106) Authorizes the Secretary to establish up to five Institutes if additional Institutes would encourage increased administrative and technical expertise and efficiency through competition between Institutes and regionalization or specialization of responsibilities. (Sec. 109) Authorizes the transfer to the Institute from the Department of Defense funds otherwise available for energy savings an amount not to exceed $5 million for FY 1997 and $5 million for FY 1998 (with each of these amounts to be available until expended). Requires repayment of such funds to be made to the Department from compensation from a percentage of savings to the Government in excess of operational costs, at the discretion of the Board. Allows the Institute, for purposes of maintaining working capital, to issue, sell, and have outstanding such notes, bonds, and other debt instruments having such maturities and bearing such rate or rates of interest as determined by the Board in an amount not to exceed $10 million. (Sec. 110) Establishes the Institute Advisory Panel and directs it to review the Institute's operations. (Sec. 111) Authorizes the Departments of the Army, the Navy, and the Air Force to enter into Institute contracts not to exceed a 30- year period for the performance of the Institute project based upon an evaluation of technical proposals submitted by the Institute, provided all goods and services contracted for pursuant to such contracts are supplied by subcontractors selected in accordance with this Act. Exempts Institute contracts or subcontracts awarded thereunder from Federal law, rules, or regulations dealing with the solicitation, award, execution, delivery, or performance of public or Federal contracts. Applies the following provisions to Institute contracts and subcontracts thereunder: (1) the Davis-Bacon Act; and (2) the dispute resolution procedures of the Contract Disputes Act of 1978. Subjects the sale of excess electric power produced by a military department as a result of an Institute contract to applicable Federal and State law. Allows: (1) Institute contracts to contain a clause authorizing the termination of the contracts for the convenience of the Government; and (2) the clause to permit anticipatory profits and consequential damages to the extent of termination. Authorizes a Secretary of a military department to lease, at fair market value, real and related personal property under the individual's jurisdiction and control in connection with an Institute project undertaken pursuant to an Institute contract for a period not in excess of 50 years. Makes the interest on the leased property taxable by State and local governments. Requires any public utility supplying electric energy or natural gas to a military installation to be: (1) notified by the Institute of any proposed contract or project at such installation; and (2) consulted by the military department and the Institute issuing a proposal for such contract or project relative to the public utility's ability to serve the installation's needs and the proposal's effect on such utility. Allows the public utility to bid upon and receive the award of such contract. (Sec. 112) Requires the Secretaries of the Military Departments to develop and submit to the Institute a list of defense energy facilities potentially suitable to the test of Institute contracts. Allows the Secretaries to contract with the Institute to aid in the preparation of this list. (Sec. 113) Sets forth annual reporting requirements for the Institute.
Bill· HRH.R. 2983 (104th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 28 February 1996
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to reinstate the ten-percent investment tax credit for property used as an integral part of manufacturing, production, or extraction or of furnishing transportation, communications, electrical energy, gas, water, and sewage disposal services.
Law· HRH.R. 2967 (104th)enacted
United States · United States Congress · 23 February 1996
Amends the Uranium Mill Tailings Radiation Control Act of 1978 to extend from 1996 to 1998 the authority of the Secretary of Energy to perform remedial action under such Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 2929 (104th)open
United States · United States Congress · 1 February 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Suspension of Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act Provisions Title II: Standards of Competition for Electric Utilities Title III: Antitrust Laws Electric Power Competition Act of 1996 - Title I: Suspension of Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act Provisions - Amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 to provide that if an electric utility has received a Certification of Completion from a State regulatory authority: (1) provisions requiring utilities to offer to purchase electric energy from qualifying cogeneration facilities and qualifying small power production facilities shall be suspended; and (2) for the duration of power purchase arrangements entered into during the period of any such suspension, the rates for such purchase shall not be dependent on the incremental cost to the utility of alternative energy. Specifies that nothing in: (1) the Act authorizes the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), a State regulatory authority, or any utility to reopen, alter, force the renegotiation of, or interfere with the enforcement of any power purchase arrangements between a qualifying cogeneration facility or qualifying small power production facilities and a utility purchaser; and (2) the Act, the Federal Power Act, or other Federal law prevents a State authority from favoring or disfavoring particular types of generation in its determination of the incremental cost to a purchasing utility of alternative electric energy. Title II: Standards of Competition for Electric Utilities - Authorizes a State regulatory authority to voluntarily elect to issue a State certification of compliance with standards and requirements of competition to a State regulated utility for which it has ratemaking authority. Directs FERC, after notice and opportunity for hearing, to establish criteria for the certification by a State regulatory authority that a State regulated utility for which it has ratemaking authority has met: (1) the minimum certification requirements under the Act; (2) either the Federal retail competition standard, or the Federal divestiture standard (established by this Act); and (3) such other requirements as FERC shall prescribe consistent with the public interest and the purposes of the Act. Specifies that a State regulated utility meets the retail competition standard if the State regulatory authority which has ratemaking authority over such utility determines, in accordance with specified criteria and procedures, that: (1) the utility permits competition in retail sales of electric energy to all consumers within its service territory; (2) the opportunity to build, own, and operate all new generating capacity approved by a State regulatory authority is open to competition by all sources; and (3) the utility does not gain any advantage over other competitors by virtue of its status as a regulated buyer and seller of electricity in its service territory. Requires that such certification be withdrawn if the State regulatory authority finds that: (1) a utility affiliate is competing unfairly by using assets, goods, or services obtained from the utility at a price below the market value; or (2) the utility or its affiliate has discriminatory access to any asset, service, or information which would be helpful to a competitor where the access is attributable to the utility's status as a regulated integrated monopoly or the asset or information is an essential facility that is not economically duplicable by a competitor. Specifies that a State regulated utility that is an integrated utility that owns or controls a monopoly distribution franchise, monopoly transmission facilities, or both, meets the divestiture standard of competition if the State regulatory authority which has ratemaking authority over such utility determines, in accordance with specified criteria and procedures, that the utility has: (1) divested itself of all existing generation facilities and is prohibited under State law from acquiring ownership or control of any generation facilities for as long as it owns or controls a monopoly distribution franchise or transmission facilities; and (2) in the case of a utility that owns or controls transmission facilities, adopted open access transmission tariffs that have been approved as just, reasonable, and not unduly preferential. Prohibits a State regulatory authority from issuing any such certification of competition to a utility unless the authority has determined that: (1) all suppliers of energy services to the utility or to electricity consumers in its service territory have the incentive and opportunity to provide energy-efficiency and renewable energy resources that are less costly on a life-cycle basis than displaced generation; (2) non-bypassable charges on use of, or access to, the local distribution services or facilities of the utility are in effect and adequate to ensure sustained and equitable allocation of costs associated with low-income services and other investments; (3) any systems of retail competition among electric-service suppliers are structured to protect customers from price discrimination or undue price increases and to ensure that no customer class can avoid its equitable share of the electric utility's legitimate and verifiable stranded costs; and (4) under applicable State laws and regulations, any recovery of sunk costs associated with existing generation assets is not contingent on continued operation of the generation assets for which recovery is approved. Title III: Antitrust Laws - Bars utilities exercising monopoly functions under State regulation from using the "State action" doctrine as a defense against charges of anticompetitive behavior in unregulated generation markets.
Bill· HRH.R. 2915 (104th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 31 January 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Block Grants for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Title II: Supplemental Security Income Subtitle A: Eligibility Restrictions Subtitle B: Benefits for Disabled Children Subtitle C: Studies Regarding Supplemental Security Income Program Subtitle D: National Commission on the Future of Disability Subtitle E: State Supplementation Programs Subtitle F: Retirement Age Eligibility Title III: Food Stamp Program Subtitle A: Food Stamp Reform Subtitle B: Anti-Fraud and Trafficking Title IV: Child Nutrition Programs Subtitle A: Reimbursement Rates Subtitle B: Grant Programs Subtitle C: Other Amendments Subtitle D: Reauthorization Title V: Noncitizens Title VI: Child Care Title VII: Protection of Battered Individuals Title VIII: Adoption Expenses Title IX: Child Support Subtitle A: Eligibility for Services; Distribution of Payments Subtitle B: Locate and Case Tracking Subtitle C: Streamlining and Uniformity of Procedures Subtitle D: Paternity Establishment Subtitle E: Program Administration and Funding Subtitle F: Establishment and Modification of Support Orders Subtitle G: Enforcement of Support Orders Subtitle H: Medical Support Subtitle I: Enhancing Responsibility and Opportunity for Nonresidential Parents Subtitle J: Effect of Enactment Title X: Reform of Public Housing Title XI: Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Subtitle A: General Program Subtitle B: Community-Based Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Grants Subtitle C: Family Violence Prevention and Services Subtitle D: Adoption Opportunities Subtitle E: Abandoned Infants Assistance Act of 1986 Subtitle F: Reauthorization of Various Programs Title XII: Reductions in Federal Government Positions Title XIII: Miscellaneous Provisions Work Opportunity Act of 1995 - Title I: Block Grants For Temporary Assistance For Needy Families - Replaces the current Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC) program under part A of title IV of the Social Security Act (SSA), and the Job Opportunities and Basic Skills Training Program (JOBS) under part F as well, with a single program of block grants to eligible States with plans approved by the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) for operating statewide temporary assistance (TEA) programs for helping welfare recipients make the transition into the work world, and for preventing and reducing the incidence of teenage pregnancies. (Sec. 101) Includes within the general program framework certain mandatory work, education, and job preparation requirements, as well as certain optional community service requirements, outlined in detail, as the primary program components for providing needy families either already having or expecting a child with the specific assistance and support services (including child care) they need to overcome any unique circumstances and become self-sufficient. Requires families to achieve such independence within a certain negotiated time-limited period (generally no more than five years except in certain cases involving minor children and hardship situations) pursuant to either a limited benefit plan or personal responsibility contract. Requires such instruments to be entered into with the particular participating State and to outline the steps for families to take to get off welfare after receiving an appropriate assessment by the relevant State agency's case manager of the family member's skills, prior work experience, and employability. Provides, additionally, within the general program framework for the following by participating States as subsidiary matters: (1) establishment of annual goals and institution of actions to prevent and reduce out-of-wedlock pregnancies, with special emphasis on teenage pregnancies, with respect to FY 1996 through 2000; (2) strategic plans for assessing program outcomes over a three-year period and estimating the total amount of State and local expenditures under the program for the fiscal year in which such plan is submitted; and (3) certain certifications that the State will, among other things, operate a child support enforcement program under SSA title IV part D, operate a child protection program under SSA title IV part B, and operate a foster care and adoption assistance program under SSA title IV part E. Allows States to determine the treatment of aliens and families moving inter-State under their respective State TEA plans. Details grant administrative provisions, including those for: (1) determining the amounts of State and Indian tribe grants under the TEA program; (2) outlining grant uses, with a limit on how much of the grant may be used for administrative purposes; (3) setting up a Federal loan program using the newly established Treasury Federal Loan Fund for State Welfare Programs for State TEA program anti-fraud and other specified activities; (4) providing for job placement performance bonuses for States based on the number of families that became ineligible for TEA program assistance as a result of unsubsidized employment; and (5) establishing a Contingency Fund for State Welfare Programs in the Treasury for payments to certain eligible States; (6) providing supplemental grant amounts for population increases in certain States; and (7) increasing grants for States that reduce out-of-wedlock births. Authorizes appropriations, including additional amounts for certain current SSA title IV part A demonstrations and for the cost of developing and evaluating innovative approaches for reducing welfare dependency and increasing the well-being of minor children, among other things. Penalizes States and individual families for specified grant and program violations, respectively, through reduced grants and assistance payments, allowing States to terminate such payments to certain adult family members without small children needing child care who refuse to engage in the required number of hours per week in mandatory program work and other activities. Limits the amount of any penalty reduction in the State's quarterly grant payment. Denies TEA assistance in certain cases, for example where an individual family member is a fugitive felon or a probation or parole violator, and suspends it for ten years in certain other cases where an individual is found to have fraudulently misrepresented residence in order to obtain TEA assistance in two or more States. Provides for the exchange of TEA program information with law enforcement agencies under certain conditions. Outlines congressional findings with regard to the importance of marriage in a successful society and the negative consequences of out-of-wedlock births and the raising of children in single-parent homes. Expresses the sense of the Congress that prevention of out-of-wedlock pregnancy and reduction in out-of-wedlock births are important Government interests and that the policy in this title is intended to address such interests. Gives States certain options for promoting responsible parenting, including the ability to deny assistance for a child born out-of- wedlock to an individual who has not attained 18 years of age, or for the individual, until the individual attains such age, and for a minor child who is born to a recipient of assistance under the TEA program or an individual who received such benefits at any time during the ten-month period ending with the birth of the child. Requires, in addition, certain mandatory adult-supervised living arrangements for unmarried teenage parents, with certain exceptions, and the participation of certain teenage parents with a minor child at least 12 weeks of age in high school or approved alternative educational activities in order to receive full TEA assistance (or, with regard to the latter, and at the option of the State, reduced assistance). Authorizes appropriations to provide States with assistance for providing or locating adult-supervised living arrangements for unmarried teenage parents. Provides for a separate reduction in State TEA grant payments for States failing to comply with Federal requirements under SSA title IV part D (Child Support and Establishment of Paternity). Expresses the sense of the Congress that State TEA programs should assign the highest priority to requiring adults in two-parent families and in single-parent families with older preschool or school-age children to be engaged in required program activities. Outlines specific program audit, data collection and reporting requirements as well as certain research, evaluation, and study requirements, among other things requiring quarterly reports by the States on family case record information and research by the HHS Secretary on the benefits, effects, and costs of operating different State TEA programs. Directs the Bureau of the Census to expand the Survey of Income and Program Participation as necessary to obtain information that will enable interested persons to evaluate the impact of the changes made by this title on a random national sample of recipients of assistance under State programs funded under this title, and on other appropriate low-income families. Provides for the treatment of certain State AFDC waivers in effect or approved by the HHS Secretary as of October 1, 1995. Provides that nothing in SSA title IV part A shall be construed as limiting a State's ability to conduct demonstration projects for the purpose of identifying innovative or effective program designs in one or more political subdivisions of the State, provided that such State contains more than one county with a population of greater than 500,000. Requires the HHS Secretary and the Secretary of Agriculture to enter jointly into negotiations with all counties having a population greater than 500,000 which desire to conduct such a demonstration project for the purpose of establishing appropriate rules to govern the establishment and operation of such project. Provides for direct funding, by way of three-year tribal family assistance grants, to Indian tribes (including Indian tribes in Alaska) for tribal administration of TEA programs. Makes the HHS Assistant Secretary for Family Support the official responsible for administering SSA title IV part A and D programs. Sets forth the mechanism for State appeal of Federal adverse decisions with respect to State TEA plans or imposition of penalties, providing for notification of any program violation. Discusses performance bonuses and high performance bonuses for States making the most progress in certain measurement categories, such as a reduction in the average length of time families in the State receive TEA assistance during a fiscal year, and an increase in the percentage of families receiving such assistance that receive child support payments under SSA title IV part D. Authorizes appropriations. Specifies amounts for child care allocations to the States to be used to provide child care assistance as a support service under the State TEA program. Requires determination of eligibility for such assistance by the appropriate State agency in accordance with State- determined criteria. Authorizes appropriations. Outlines the mechanism for collecting the amount of any overpayments under an approved State TEA plan from Federal tax refunds. (Sec. 102) Allows States to contract with charitable, religious, and private organizations to provide services and administer programs established or modified under titles I, II, and X of this Act. Prohibits the expenditure of financial assistance under such programs for sectarian worship or instruction, except where such assistance is provided to or on behalf of beneficiaries of assistance in the form of certificates, vouchers, or other forms of disbursement, if such beneficiary may choose where such assistance shall be redeemed. (Sec. 104) Provides for the continued application of AFDC standards under the Medicaid program. (Sec. 105) Directs the Secretary of Commerce to expand census data collection efforts to enable the Bureau of the Census to collect statistically significant data on grandparent caregivers. (Sec. 105A) Directs the Commissioner of Social Security to: (1) develop a prototype of a counterfeit-resistant social security-card that also provides proof of citizenship or legal resident alien status; and (2) conduct a study and report to the Congress on different methods of improving the social security card application process. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 106) Makes conforming amendments to SSA, the Food Stamp Act of 1977, and related provisions of other specified Federal laws. (Sec. 109) Directs the HHS Secretary to study and report to the Congress on the impact of the amendments of this Act on grandparents who have assumed the responsibility of providing care to their grandchildren. (Sec. 110) Requires any organization accepting Federal funds under this Act to disclose that fact in any communication it makes that in any way intends to promote public support or opposition to any Federal, State, or local government policy through any broadcasting station, periodical, or other specified type of general public advertising. Makes any organization failing to make such a disclosure ineligible to receive Federal funds under this Act. (Sec. 110A) Amends the Family Support Act of 1988 to remove the "demonstration" status of the Job Opportunities for Certain Low-Income Individuals (JOLI) program and give it an increased annual authorization for any fiscal year. (Sec. 110B) Directs the Secretary of Education to make demonstration grants to States to enable them to increase the number of hours during each day when existing public school facilities are available for use in expanding the scope of student programs offered before and after pre-existing school hours and for making school facilities available for educational, recreational, and social activities. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 110C) Requires the Federal Government, prior to assessing a penalty against a State under any program established or modified under this Act, to: (1) notify the State of the violation of law for which such penalty would be assessed; and (2) allow the State the opportunity to enter into a corrective compliance plan outlining how it will correct any violations for which such penalty would be assessed, and how it will insure continuing compliance with the requirements of such program. Provides that if a State has not corrected the violation in a timely manner under the plan, some or all of the penalty shall be assessed. (Sec. 110D) Details specifics of parental responsibility contracts, as well as penalties for noncompliance with such contracts. (Sec. 110E) Sets forth provisions similar to those for corrective compliance plans with regard to corrective action plans, giving States specified grace periods from notification of law violation to submission of a proposed corrective action plan, and from Federal Government acceptance of such a plan till imposition of any penalty if the State corrects the violation. Title II: Supplemental Security Income - Subtitle A: Eligibility Restrictions - Amends SSA title XVI (Supplemental Security Income) (SSI) to: (1) deny SSI by reason of disability to drug addicts and alcoholics if addiction or alcoholism is a contributing factor material to the disability determination; (2) revise representative payee requirements; (3) provide for treatment services for individuals with a substance abuse condition; (4) provide for limited eligibility of certain noncitizens for SSI benefits; (5) deny SSI benefits for ten years to individuals found to have fraudulently misrepresented residence in order to obtain benefits simultaneously in two or more States; (6) deny SSI benefits for fugitive felons and probation and parole violators; and (7) provide for exchange of SSI information with law enforcement agencies. Provides for certain supplemental funding for alcohol and substance abuse treatment programs. Subtitle B: Benefits for Disabled Children - Revises the rules with respect to childhood eligibility, with corresponding changes to childhood SSI regulations modifying the medical criteria for evaluation of mental and emotional disorders, and discontinuing the use of individualized functional assessments for children. Requires the Commissioner of Social Security to redetermine the eligibility of any individual under age 18 who is receiving SSI benefits based on a disability as of enactment of this Act, and whose eligibility for such benefits may terminate by reason of the above amendments. (Sec. 212) Provides that not less frequently than once every three years the Commissioner shall review the continued SSI eligibility of each individual who has not attained 18 years of age, and is eligible for such benefits by reason of an impairment (or combination of impairments) which may improve (or, which is unlikely to improve, at the option of the Commissioner). Requires a parent or guardian of a recipient whose case is so reviewed to present, at the time of review, evidence demonstrating that the recipient is, and has been, receiving treatment, to the extent considered medically necessary and available, of the condition which was the basis for providing benefits under the SSI program. Provides that if an individual is eligible for SSI benefits by reason of disability for the month preceding the month in which the individual attains age 18, the Commissioner shall redetermine such eligibility: (1) during the one year period beginning on the individual's 18th birthday; and (2) by applying the criteria used in determining the initial eligibility for applicants who have attained age 18. Outlines specific requirements governing: (1) continuing disability reviews for low birth weight babies; and (2) benefit payments through representative payees to eligible individuals and their spouses. Subtitle C: Studies Regarding Supplemental Security Income Program - Requires the Commissioner of Social Security to report annually to the President and the Congress regarding the SSI program. (Sec. 222) Requires the Commissioner to issue a request for comments in the Federal Register regarding improvements to the disability evaluation and determination procedures for individuals under age 18 to ensure a comprehensive assessment of such individuals. Directs the Commissioner to review such comments and issue regulations implementing any necessary changes not later than 18 months after this Act is enacted. (Sec. 223) Requires the Commissioner to make arrangements with the National Academy of Sciences, or other independent entity, to study the disability determination process under SSA titles II and XVI for reports to the President and the Congress. (Sec. 224) Directs the Comptroller General to study and report on the impact of the amendments made by, and the provisions of, this title on the SSI program. Subtitle D: National Commission on the Future of Disability - Establishes the National Commission on the Future of Disability to make a comprehensive study of all matters related to the nature, purpose, and adequacy of all Federal programs serving individuals with disabilities, including the programs under SSA titles II and XVI, with resulting recommendations for appropriate action submitted to the President and the Congress. Subtitle E: State Supplementation Programs - Repeals maintenance of effort requirements applicable to optional State programs for supplementation of SSI benefits. Subtitle F: Retirement Age Eligibility - Provides that, for purposes of determining an aged individual under SSI, the age used shall be the retirement age used under the Old Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance Program under SSA title II. Title III: Food Stamp Program - Subtitle A: Food Stamp Reform - Amends the Food Stamp Act of 1977 (Act) to establish a maximum 24- month food stamp program (program) authorization period for households whose adult members are elderly or disabled. (Sec. 302) Treats children who are themselves parents living with their children and married children living with their spouses as part of an existing household rather than as a separate household. (Sec. 303) Authorizes States to establish additional criteria for separate household determinations. (Sec. 304) Revises thrifty food plan adjustment provisions. (Sec. 305) Revises the definition of "homeless individual" to limit the length of time a person may temporarily live in another person's residence. (Sec. 307) Revises household income exclusion provisions regarding: (1) students; and (2) Federal energy assistance. (Sec. 309) Revises household income deduction provisions regarding: (1) standard deductions; (2) earned income; (3) dependent care; (4) child support payments; (5) homeless shelter assistance; (6) excess medical expenses; and (7) excess shelter expenses. (Sec. 310) Eliminates a specified auto asset increase. (Sec. 311) Increases the income and resources attribution period for sponsored aliens. (Sec. 312) Revises provisions regarding disqualification for refusal to register for or accept employment. (Sec. 314) Revises work requirement and employment and training provisions. Extends employment and training authorizations. (Sec. 315) Authorizes comparable program disqualification based upon welfare or public assistance disqualification. (Sec. 316) Requires at State option: (1) cooperation with child support agencies in order to maintain program eligibility; and (2) program disqualification for child support arrears. (Sec. 318) Disqualifies permanently an individual who participates in the program in two or more States. (Sec. 319) Defines "work program." Makes nonexempt persons ineligible for program benefits if during the preceding 12-monyh period they received food stamps for four months or more without working at least 20 hours per week, or participating in a workfare program. Sets forth exempted persons and situations. (Sec. 319A) Disqualifies a fleeing felon from program participation. (Sec. 320) Authorizes States to implement electronic benefit transfer systems. (Sec. 321) Eliminates annual minimum allotment adjustments. (Sec. 323) Authorizes a combined allotment for expedited households. (Sec. 324) Authorizes program reductions for failure to comply with a public assistance reduction requirement. (Sec. 325) Authorizes program assistance for households residing in a homeless shelter or drug or alcohol treatment center. (Sec. 326) Revises: (1) food stamp office operating provisions; and (2) expedited coupon service requirements. (Sec. 327) Eliminates certain certification personnel training requirements. (Sec. 328) Provides for the exchange of information with law enforcement or Immigration and Naturalization Service personnel. (Sec. 330) Authorizes a family to withdraw a fair hearing request. (Sec. 331) Permits States to use income, and immigration eligibility verification systems other than a specified system under the Social Security Act. (Sec. 332) Includes among the means that States shall use to collect coupon overissuances: (1) withholding of unemployment compensation; and (2) recovery from Federal pay or Federal tax refund. Establishes family hardship and maximum reduction provisions. (Sec. 333) Terminates Federal matching requirements for program recruitment activities. (Sec. 335) Authorizes States to use funds otherwise available to a participating household for a work supplementation or support program. (Sec. 336) Authorizes waiver of program requirements as necessary to conduct related pilot projects. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 337) Authorizes States to carry out private sector employment initiatives. Sets forth program provisions. (Sec. 340) Authorizes appropriations for: (1) program operations; and (2) Puerto Rico block grants. (Sec. 342) Authorizes States to carry out a Simplified Food Stamp Program in lieu of existing program requirements. Sets forth Program provisions. (Sec. 343) Establishes an optional State food assistance block grant program in lieu of the food stamp program. Sets forth program provisions. Subtitle B: Anti-Fraud and Trafficking - Expands the definition of "coupon." (Sec. 352) Increases penalties for specified program violations. (Sec. 353) Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture (Secretary) to establish specific time periods for: (1) retail food stores and wholesale food concerns (stores) to apply for food stamp program (program) participation; and (2) prohibition of program participation based on lack of business integrity. (Sec. 355) Includes income and sales tax information among the types of eligibility verification information which may be requested. (Sec. 356) Establishes a six-month reapplication waiting period for a store that does not meet participation requirements. (Sec. 358) Authorizes suspension of a store pending administrative and judicial review. (States that the Secretary shall not be liable for lost sales during such period.) (Sec. 359) Provides for disqualification of a store that is disqualified from the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). (Sec. 360) Provides for permanent disqualification of a store that knowingly submits a falsified application. (Sec. 361) Expands civil and criminal forfeiture for specified violations of the Act. Title IV: Child Nutrition Programs - Subtitle A: Reimbursement Rates - Amends the National School Lunch Act (NSLA) to terminate the additional lunch payment for schools with high percentages of free or reduced price lunches. (Sec. 402) Revises NSLA annual adjustment provisions for: (1) value of food assistance; and (2) lunches, breakfasts, and supplements. (Sec. 404) Revises NSLA service institution payment provisions for the summer food service program for children. (Sec. 405) Amends the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 (CNA) to revise annual adjustment provisions for: (1) the special milk program; and (2) the school breakfast program. (Sec. 407) Conforms reimbursement for CNA school breakfasts with that for NSLA school lunches. Subtitle B: Grant Programs - Amends CNA to: (1) terminate school breakfast startup grants; and (2) reduce annual authorization of appropriations for nutrition education and training programs. Subtitle C: Other Amendments - Amends NSLA and CNA to set forth free and reduced price policy statements for the school lunch program and the school breakfast program. (Sec. 422) Revises NSLA provisions for the summer food service program for children. Allows participating school food authorities to permit a child to refuse not more than one item of a meal that the child does not intend to consume. Provides that a refusal of an offered food shall not affect the amount of payments to a school for the meal. Removes a requirement that States submit a plan or schedule as part of notice to institutions. (Sec. 423) Revises NSLA provisions for the child and adult care food program with respect to payments to certain sponsor employees. Revises provisions regarding day care home reimbursements. Requires reservation of certain funds for grants to States for assistance for family or group day care homes. Requires Federal and State provision of certain data to family or group day care home sponsoring organizations. Disallows certain meal claims. Eliminates certain requirements involving State paperwork and outreach. Requires States to provide training, technical assistance, and monitoring. Sets deadlines for the Secretary's issuance of specified interim and final regulations. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture, in conjunction with the Secretary of Health and Human Services, to study the impact of amendments made by this section on various aspects of program participation and family day care licensing, and to submit a report on such study to specified congressional committees. (Sec. 424) Requires a review of all NSLA and CNA reporting requirements and a report recommending elimination of any that impose a paperwork burden on agencies and schools which cannot be justified by their contribution to program effectiveness. Subtitle D: Reauthorization - Amends the Agriculture and Consumer Protection Act of 1973 to reauthorize appropriations for the commodity distribution program. (Sec. 432) Amends the Emergency Food Assistance Act of 1983 and the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1993 to extend authority and reauthorize appropriations for the emergency food assistance program. (Sec. 433) Amends the Hunger Prevention Act of 1988 to reauthorize appropriations for the soup kitchens program. (Sec. 434) Amends the Agriculture and Food Act of 1981 to extend authority for processing of agricultural commodities into food products. (Sec. 435) Amends the Agriculture and Consumer Protection Act of 1973 to extend authority for the commodity supplemental food program. Title V: Noncitizens - Authorizes States to prohibit use of Federal funds received for any means-tested public assistance program for noncitizens (with specified exceptions). (Sec. 502) Includes a sponsor's and spouse's income and resources actually provided to a sponsored alien as part of such alien's income and resources for purposes of Federal and federally funded assistance program eligibility. Makes such provision inapplicable to: (1) certain emergency medical services; (2) short-term emergency disaster relief; (3) National School Lunch Act or Child Nutrition Act of 1966 benefits; (4) public health immunization and communicable disease assistance; (5) Head Start; and (6) specified community services. (Sec. 503) Requires a sponsor affidavit of support to be legally enforceable. (Sec. 504) Amends the Social Security Act to limit noncitizen eligibility for supplemental security income (SSI). (Sec. 505) Prohibits any need-based Federal or federally-funded assistance (with specified exceptions) to be given to a noncitizen for the first five years after such person's entry into the United States. (Sec. 506) Amends the Social Security Act and the United States Housing Act of 1937 to provide for State reporting of certain illegal alien information to the Immigration and Naturalization Service. (Sec. 507) Prohibits Federal benefits to be paid or provided to any person not lawfully in the United States. Specifies exceptions for: (1) certain emergency medical services; (2) short-term emergency disaster relief; (3) National School Lunch Act or Child Nutrition Act of 1966 benefits; and (4) public health immunization and communicable disease assistance. Authorizes appropriations. Title VI: Child Care - Child Care and Development Block Grant Amendments Act of 1995 - Amends the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 1990 to authorize appropriations for FY 1996 through 2000. Revises program implementation requirements. Repeals the mandate for State early childhood development and before- and after-school services; but allows States to offer such services. (Sec. 602) Prescribes guidelines under which an Indian tribal organization may use for facility construction or renovation Federal financial assistance earmarked for child care and development services, subject to certain conditions. (Sec. 603) Repeals: (1) the State Dependent Care Development Grants Act; and (2) the Child Development Associate Scholarship Assistance Act of 1985. Title VII: Protection of Battered Individuals - Provides for administrative exemption of battered individuals from specified requirements of this Act, the Social Security Act and the Food Stamp Act, if the physical, mental, or emotional well-being of the individual would be endangered by compliance with such requirements. Title VIII: Adoption Expenses - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to: (1) allow up to $5,000 of qualified adoption expenses as a tax credit to certain income-level individuals; (2) exclude from gross income employee or military adoption assistance benefits; and (3) permit individual retirement account (IRA) withdrawals without penalty for qualified adoption expense purposes. Title IX: Child Support - Subtitle A: Eligibility for Services; Distribution of Payments - Amends part D (Child Support and Establishment of Paternity) of SSA title IV to require State plans for child and spousal support to provide: (1) certain services relating to paternity establishment or enforcement of child support obligations; and (2) continuation of services for families ceasing to receive assistance under Aid to Families with Dependent Children. (Sec. 902) Revises payment distribution guidelines for support obligations collected by the State on behalf of a family. (Sec. 903) Requires State plans to establish procedural guidelines for: (1) notification of all proceedings and orders affecting child support obligations; and (2) privacy safeguards regarding paternity and child support actions. Subtitle B: Locate and Case Tracking - Mandates that single statewide automated data systems include a State case registry containing records of: (1) each case in which services are provided by the State agency; and (2) each support order established on or after a specified date. Permits the linking of local registries to establish such a State registry. (Sec. 912) Requires State plans to include a centralized, automated State disbursement unit for the collection and disbursement of support payments. (Sec. 913) Requires State plans to: (1) provide for an automated State Directory of New Hires containing prescribed information furnished by employers on new personnel; and (2) transmit such information to the National Directory of New Hires. (Sec. 914) Revises the requirement for State procedures for mandatory income withholding for support payments subject to enforcement. Requires procedures under which child support orders issued before October 1, 1996, shall become subject to withholding from wages if arrearages occur, without the need for a judicial or administrative hearing. Revises the procedural guidelines for such income withholding. (Sec. 915) Requires the States to have statutorily prescribed procedures to ensure that Federal and State agencies conducting income-withholding activities have access to State locator systems for motor vehicle or law enforcement purposes. (Sec. 916) Revises the Federal Parent Locator Service to provide for additional information which may be transmitted to locate individuals and assets for purposes of: (1) establishing parentage; (2) executing child support obligations; and (3) enforcing visitation orders. (Sec. 917) Requires States to have statutorily prescribed procedures requiring recordation on such documents of the Social Security number of: (1) specified driver's, marriage, and occupational, and professional license applicants; (2) individuals subject to certain domestic relations orders; and (3) death records. Subtitle C: Streamlining and Uniformity of Procedures - Requires each State to have the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act in effect as of January 1, 1997. Amends the Federal judicial code to revise the procedures for the court to apply when determining which State order to recognize for purposes of continuing, exclusive jurisdiction and enforcement for child support orders. (Sec. 923) Requires the States to have statutorily prescribed procedures requiring: (1) expedited administrative enforcement in interstate cases and support orders; and (2) expedited administrative and judicial procedures for establishing paternity and enforcing support obligations. Subtitle D: Paternity Establishment - Revises the guidelines for State laws governing paternity establishment. Requires State procedures under which the name of the father shall be included on the birth certificate only: (1) if the mother and father have signed a voluntary acknowledgement of paternity; or (2) pursuant to a judicial or administrative order. (Sec. 933) Requires State plans for child and spousal support to provide that the State agency administering the plan will make a determination as to whether a program recipient is cooperating in good faith with State efforts to establish paternity and secure support. Subtitle E: Program Administration and Funding - Revises the guidelines for Federal performance-based incentive payments to the States for effective child support enforcement programs. (Sec. 942) Requires a State plan for child and spousal support to include prescribed procedures for State reviews and audits. Revises the guidelines for Federal evaluation and audit of State programs governing paternity, child and spousal support, and parent location. (Sec. 944) Revises the automated data processing requirements for State plans to mandate a single statewide automated data processing and information retrieval system which can perform specified tasks. (Sec. 945) Makes funds available to the Secretary for: (1) training of Federal and State staff, research and demonstration programs, and special projects of regional and national significance; and (2) operation of the Federal Parent Locator Service. Subtitle F: Establishment and Modification of Support Orders - Establishes the National Child Support Guidelines Commission to determine the need for consideration by the Congress of national child support guidelines. (Sec. 952) Revises the requirements for State plan procedures for the review and adjustment of support orders. (Sec. 953) Amends the Fair Credit Reporting Act to authorize a consumer agency to furnish a consumer report: (1) in response to a request by a governmental child support enforcement agency; or (2) to the State administrative agency which sets child support awards. (Sec. 954) Shields a depository institution from Federal or State liability for disclosing any financial record of an individual to a State child support enforcement agency. Prohibits such agency from disclosing such a financial record except for the purpose of, and to the extent necessary in, establishing, modifying, or enforcing a child support obligation. Sets forth civil penalties for any person knowingly or negligently violating such prohibition. Subtitle G: Enforcement of Support Orders - Amends Internal Revenue Code procedural guidelines for the collection of arrearages to provide that no additional fee may be assessed for adjustments to a previously certified amount. (Sec. 962) Amends part D (Child Support and Establishment of Paternity) of SSA title IV to revise procedural guidelines for: (1) consent by the United States to income withholding, garnishment, and similar proceedings for enforcement of child support and alimony obligations of current and retired Federal employees; and (2) enforcement of child support obligations of members of the Armed Forces. (Sec. 964) Requires a State plan for child and spousal support to have in effect the Uniform Fraudulent Conveyance Act of 1981, the Uniform Fraudulent Transfer Act of 1984, or a similar law, as well as certain procedures governing the voiding of fraudulent transfers by a child support debtor. (Sec. 965) Requires a State plan for child and spousal support to include specified procedures: (1) to ensure that persons owing past-due support work or participate in work activities the court deems appropriate; (2) to report to credit bureaus the name of the parent in arrears for child support; (3) to provide for liens against real and personal property for the support arrearages of an absent parent; and (4) to implement the restriction of driver's, professional, occupational, and recreational licenses of individuals owing support arrearages. (Sec. 970) Requires the Secretary of State to deny, revoke, or limit a passport upon certification of nonpayment of child support. (Sec. 971) Authorizes the Secretary of State to negotiate reciprocal agreements with foreign nations: (1) regarding international enforcement of child support obligations; and (2) designating the Department of Health and Human Services as the central authority for such enforcement. (Sec. 972) Denies means-tested Federal benefits to a non-custodial parent who is more than two months delinquent in paying child support. (Sec. 973) Requires a State plan for child and spousal support to provide that such State will make reasonable efforts to enter into cooperative agreements with an Indian tribe or tribal organization having an established tribal court system with child support enforcement powers for the cooperative delivery of child support enforcement services. Authorizes the Secretary to make direct payments (analogous to payments to a State plan for spousal and child support) to an Indian tribe or tribal organization with an approved child support enforcement plan. (Sec. 974) Requires States to have statutorily prescribed procedures under which a State agency shall enter agreements with financial institutions doing business within the State to develop and operate a data match system to provide identifying information for each absent parent targeted by the State who maintains an account at the institution, and to encumber such parent's assets at the institution pursuant to a lien or levy. Subtitle H: Medical Support - Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) to include within the definition of medical child support order an order issued through a State administrative process. (Sec. 976) Amends part D of SSA title IV to mandate statutorily prescribed procedures under which all enforced child support orders shall include a provision for the health care coverage of the child. (Sec. 977) Requires States to have statutorily prescribed procedures under which child support orders relating to the child of minor parents, where the mother is receiving assistance, are enforceable against the child's paternal grandparents. Subtitle I: Enhancing Responsibility and Opportunity for Nonresidential Parents - Amends part D of SSA title IV to prescribe guidelines under which the Administration for Children and Families shall make grants to enable States to establish and administer access and visitation programs to facilitate absent parents' access to their children. Subtitle J: Effect of Enactment - Sets forth effective dates for the provisions of this title. Title X: Reform of Public Housing - Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to revise public housing rent provisions, including: (1) ceiling rents; and (2) definition of adjusted income. (Sec. 1003) Prohibits increased public housing assistance based upon reduced family income resulting from a failure to comply with other welfare or public assistance programs. (Sec. 1004) Makes the provisions of this title applicable to Indian housing. (Sec. 1006) Makes the "take-one-take-all" requirement (acceptance of one voucher holder requires acceptance of all similar applicants) under section 8 of the United States Housing Act of 1937 inapplicable to a specified housing project in Madison, Wisconsin. (Sec. 1007) Prohibits an assistance increase to a person based upon reduced income resulting from a fraud reduction in benefits from another means-tested assistance program. Title XI: Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment - Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act Amendments of 1995 - Subtitle A: General Program - Revises the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act to replace provisions directing the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to establish the National Center on Child Abuse and Neglect with provisions authorizing the Secretary to establish an Office on Child Abuse and Neglect to execute and coordinate functions and activities under the Act. (Sec. 1114) Changes from mandatory to discretionary the Secretary's authority to appoint the Advisory Board on Child Abuse and Neglect. Requires the Advisory Board to report to the Secretary and the appropriate congressional committees its: (1) recommendations on coordinating Federal, State, and local child abuse and neglect activities with similar activities pertaining to family violence prevention; (2) specific modifications needed in Federal and State laws and programs to reduce the number of unfounded or unsubstantiated reports of child abuse or neglect; and (3) recommendations for modifications needed to facilitate coordinated national data collection. (Sec. 1115) Repeals the mandate to establish an Interagency Task Force on Child Abuse and Neglect. (Sec. 1116) Requires the Secretary to establish the National Clearinghouse for Information Relating to Child Abuse either through the Department of HHS (currently, through the National Center on Child Abuse and Neglect) or by one or more contracts let through competition (currently, by one contract only). Requires the HHS Secretary to develop a Federal data collection which: (1) includes data on false and unsubstantiated reports and data on deaths resulting from child abuse and neglect; and (2) collects and makes available State child abuse and neglect reporting information which is universal and case specific, and integrated with other case-based foster care and adoption data. (Sec. 1117) Directs the Secretary to restructure the interdisciplinary program of research to provide information needed to better protect children from abuse or neglect and to improve the well-being of abused or neglected children, with at least a portion of such research being field initiated. Directs the Secretary to require research on additional specific issues, including research on: (1) the causes, prevention, assessment, identification, treatment, cultural and socio-economic distinctions, and consequences of child abuse and neglect; (2) incidence of substantiated and unsubstantiated reported child abuse cases; (3) number of unsubstantiated cases that result in a judicial finding of child abuse or neglect or related criminal court convictions; and (4) the extent to which the lack of adequate resources and adequate training of reporters has contributed to the inability of a State to respond effectively to serious cases of child abuse and neglect. Expands the types of technical assistance which may be provided to State and local public and nonprofit agencies to include, among other things, ways to mitigate psychological trauma to the child victim. Allows the Secretary of disseminate information. Revises requirements for peer review. (Sec. 1118) Changes from mandatory to discretionary the program of grants to, and contracts with, public or nonprofit private agencies or organizations for time limited, child abuse prevention and treatment demonstration programs and projects, especially grants for the establishment of resource centers. Revises the requirements for certain innovative projects to: (1) eliminate specified programs, but provide, instead, for collaborative partnerships between the State child protective service agency, community social service agencies and family support programs, schools, churches and synagogues, and other community agencies to allow for establishment of a triage system of report assessment; and (2) provide for kinship care and supervised visitation centers for families. (Sec. 1119) Revises the program of mandatory development and operation grants to assist States in improving their child protective service systems in specified ways, including grant purposes (especially services to disabled infants), eligibility requirements (especially provision for prompt expungement of public records in unsubstantiated or false cases), and State program plan elements. Directs the Secretary within six months after receiving the State reports, to prepare and submit an annual report to the Secretary. (Sec. 1120) Repeals provisions regarding: (1) technical assistance to States for child abuse prevention and treatment programs; and (2) the requirement that the Secretary ensure that a majority of assistance under the Act is available for discretionary research and demonstration grants. (Sec. 1122) Redefines "child abuse and neglect" to mean, at a minimum, any recent act or failure to act on the part of a parent or caretaker, which results in death or serious physical, sexual, or emotional harm, or presents an imminent risk of serious harm. (Sec. 1123) Authorizes appropriations for FY 1996 through 2000 to carry out child abuse and neglect program activities, including specified allocations for discretionary activities and demonstration projects. (Sec. 1124) Declares that nothing in such Act shall be construed: (1) as establishing a Federal requirement that a parent or legal guardian provide a child any medical service or treatment against the religious beliefs of the parent or legal guardian; or (2) requiring that a State find, or prohibiting a State from finding, abuse or neglect in cases in which a parent or legal guardian relies solely or partially upon spiritual means rather than medical treatment, in accordance with the religious beliefs of the parent or legal guardian. Requires a State, at a minimum, to have in place authority under State law to permit the State child protective service system to pursue any legal remedies, including the authority to initiate legal proceedings in a court of competent jurisdiction, to provide medical care or treatment for a child when such care or treatment is necessary to prevent or remedy serious harm to the child, or to prevent the withholding of medically indicated treatment from children with life threatening conditions. Places case by case determinations concerning the exercise of such authority within the sole discretion of the State. Subtitle B: Community-Based Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Grants - Revises the Act with regard to community-based family resource and support formula grants. (Sec. 1131) Revises program purposes to emphasize: (1) developing, operating, expanding, and enhancing statewide networks of community-based, prevention-focused, family resource and support programs that provide specified services (statewide networks); (2) fostering the development of a continuum of preventive services for children and families through State and community-based collaborations and partnerships; (3) financing the start-up, maintenance, expansion, or redesign of specific family resource and support program services identified as an unmet need, and integrated with the network of community-based family resource and support program to the extent practicable given funding levels and community priorities; (4) maximizing funding for specified activities for establishing, operating, or expanding a statewide network; and (5) financing specified public information activities. Revises requirements for: (1) grant eligibility (repealing the requirement of a State trust fund, but requiring the State to designate an existing public, quasi-public, or nonprofit private entity as lead entity to administer the funds involved and create or enhance a Statewide network of programs); (2) grant amounts; (3) existing and continuation grants; (4) grant applications; (5) local programs; and (6) performance measures. Authorizes the Secretary to allocate funds to support the activities of the lead entity in the State to: (1) create, operate, and maintain a peer review process, an information clearinghouse, and a computerized communication system between lead entities; (2) fund a yearly symposium on State system change efforts that result from the operation of the Statewide networks; and (3) fund State-to-State technical assistance through biannual conferences. Authorizes appropriations for such grant programs through FY 2000. (Sec. 1132) Repeals the Temporary Child Care for Children with Disabilities and Crisis Nurseries Act of 1986 and provisions of the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act regarding family support centers. Subtitle C: Family Violence Prevention and Services - Revises the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act to prohibit a grant to an entity other than a State or an Indian tribe unless the entity provides for a non-Federal matching local share: (1) of not less than 20 percent with respect to an entity operating an existing program; and (2) of not less than 35 percent with respect to an entity intending to operate a new program. (Sec. 1143) Requires that each State be allotted not less than one percent of amounts available for grants for the fiscal year in which the allotment is made or $400,000 (currently, $200,000), whichever is the lesser amount. (Sec. 1144) Requires that, of amounts appropriated for family violence prevention and services in a fiscal year, not less than: (1) 70 (currently, 80) percent be used for making grants to States; and (2) ten percent be used by the Secretary for making grants for State domestic violence coalitions. Requires that Federal funds made available to a State be used to supplement and not supplant other Federal, State, and local public funds expended. Subtitle D: Adoption Opportunities - Amends the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment and Adoption Reform Act of 1978, revising the findings and purposes, and directing the Secretary to study: (1) the nature, scope, and effects of the placement of children in kinship care arrangements or pre-adoptive as well as in (as currently) adoptive homes; and (2) the efficacy of States contracting with public or private nonprofit agencies, organizations, or sectarian institutions to recruit potential adoptive and foster families and to provide assistance in the placement of children for adoption. (Sec. 1153) Requires each State entering into an agreement regarding grants for improving State efforts to increase the placement of foster care children legally free for adoption to submit an application that describes the manner in which the State will use funds during the three fiscal years subsequent to the date of the application to accomplish the purposes of the Act. Directs the Secretary to provide: (1) technical assistance and resource and referral information to assist State or local governments with termination of parental rights issues, in recruiting and retaining adoptive families, in successful placement of children with special needs, and in the provision of pre- and post-placement services; and (2) other assistance to help State and local governments replicate successful adoption-related projects from other areas in the United States. (Sec. 1154) Authorizes appropriations for FY 1996 through 2000. Subtitle E: Abandoned Infants Assistance Act of 1986 - Extends the authorization of appropriations for the Abandoned Infants Assistance Act of 1988 through FY 2000. Subtitle F: Reauthorization of Various Programs - Extends the authorization of appropriations through FY 1997 for the Missing Children's Assistance Act (and directs that not more than five percent of the amount appropriated for a fiscal year be used to evaluate the effectiveness of specified programs and activities established and operated under the Act). (Sec. 1172) Extends the authorization of appropriations for the Victims of Child Abuse Act of 1990 for two years. Title XII: Reductions in Federal Government Positions - Outlines the mechanism for various specified Federal executive agency workforce reductions, requiring submission to specified congressional committees of certain determinations about the number of full-time equivalent (FTE) positions of their respective departments by the Secretaries of Agriculture, of Education, of Labor, of Housing and Urban Development, and of HHS. Requires the Secretaries to make FTE reductions, including reductions-in-force, resulting from such determinations. Requires the Comptroller General to analyze and report to such committees on such determinations, with recommendations for further FTE reductions, if appropriate. (Sec. 1202) Requires the HHS Secretary to reduce the Federal workforce within HHS: (1) by 75 percent of the FTE positions relating to any direct spending program, or any program funded through discretionary spending, that has been converted into a block grant program by this Act; and (2) by 75 percent of a proportionate number of the total FTE departmental management positions. Requires reduction of FTE positions in HHS: (1) by 245 FTE positions related to the Aid to Families With Dependent Children (AFDC) program converted by this Act into TEA block grants; and (2) by 60 FTE managerial positions. (Sec. 1203) Encourages the HHS Secretary to reduce personnel in the Washington, D.C., area office (agency headquarters) before reducing field personnel. Title XIII: Miscellaneous Provisions - Provides, among other things, for: (1) the expenditure of Federal funds received by a State under TEA and certain other Federal programs only in accordance with laws and procedures applicable to expenditures of the State's own revenues; (2) elimination of housing assistance under the United States Housing Act of 1937 with respect to fugitive felons and probation and parole violators; (3) certain options for State consideration of the income and resources of an ineligible household member when determining under the Food Stamp Act of 1977 the food stamp eligibility and allotment of such individual's household; and (4) an increase in funding for sexual abstinence education under SSA title XX. (Sec. 1302) Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to provide for the exchange of housing information with law enforcement agencies. (Sec. 1303) Expresses the sense of the Senate that the Congress should adopt enterprise zone legislation in the 104th Congress providing for various specified incentives, regulatory reforms, and school reform pilot projects. (Sec. 1304) Expresses the sense of the Senate that States: (1) should diligently continue their efforts to enforce child support payments by the non-custodial parent; and (2) are encouraged to pursue pilot programs in which the parents of a non-adult, non-custodial parent who refuses to or is unable to pay child support must pay or contribute to the child support owed by the non-custodial parent or otherwise fulfill all financial obligations and meet all conditions imposed on the non-custodial parent, such as participation in a work program or other related activity. (Sec. 1306) Expresses the sense of the Senate that before the Senate acts on the conference report on either H.R. 4 or any other legislation including welfare reform provisions, the Congressional Budget Office shall prepare an analysis of the conference report to include estimates of the costs to States of requirements imposed on them by such legislation, the resources available to meet such requirements, and the amount of any additional revenue needed by the States to meet such requirements. (Sec. 1307) Expresses the sense of the Senate that any legislation enacted by the Congress should not eliminate or in any way weaken the present competitive bidding requirements for the purchase of infant formula with respect to any program supported wholly or in part by Federal funds. (Sec. 1308) Directs the HHS Secretary to: (1) implement a certain strategy for preventing out-of-wedlock teenage pregnancies and assuring that at least 25 percent of U.S. communities have teenage pregnancy prevention programs; and (2) report to the Congress on the State programs so implemented to determine their progress. Provides under SSA title XX (Block Grants to States for Social Services) for a study to determine the effectiveness of State out-of- wedlock and teenage pregnancy prevention programs for a report to the Congress. (Sec. 1309) Expresses the sense of the Senate that States and local jurisdictions should aggressively enforce statutory rape laws. (Sec. 1310) Declares that States shall not be prohibited by the Federal Government from sanctioning welfare recipients who test positive for use of controlled substances. (Sec. 1311) Amends SSA title V (Maternal and Child Health Services) to provide for a set-aside for sexual abstinence education.
Bill· HRH.R. 2906 (104th)open
United States · United States Congress · 30 January 1996
Helium Privatization Act of 1996 - Amends the Helium Act to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to: (1) enter into agreements with private parties for the recovery and disposal of helium on Federal lands; (2) grant leasehold rights to such helium; (3) store and transport crude helium; and (4) maintain and operate existing crude helium storage at the Bureau of Mines Cliffside Field. Directs the Secretary to: (1) cease producing, refining, and marketing refined helium; and (2) dispose of all facilities, equipment, and Federal property interests relating to refined helium activities. Requires the Secretary to impose fees for helium storage, withdrawal, or transportation services. Prescribes guidelines for: (1) the purchase of helium by Federal agencies from certain private persons; and (2) the sale of crude helium by the Secretary. Requires the Secretary to make crude helium sales in amounts that will cause minimum market disruption. Mandates that proceeds from helium sales be paid to the Treasury. Instructs the Secretary to eliminate helium stockpiles by a prescribed deadline. Repeals the Secretary's authority to borrow under the Helium Act.
Bill· SS. 1533 (104th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 January 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Economic Opportunity Subtitle A: Tax Incentives Subtitle B: Contracting Set-Aside Reform Subtitle C: Small Business Mentor Program Title II: Community Infrastructure Title III: Safe Streets Subtitle A: Mandatory Restitution Subtitle B: Asset Forfeiture Assistance Title IV: Educational Opportunity Title V: Family Opportunity Title VI: Volunteer Protection Title VII: Spectrum Auction Community Renewal and Economic Opportunity Act - Title I: Economic Opportunity - Subtitle A: Tax Incentives - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a general ten percent tax credit for qualifying businesses in empowerment zones and enterprise communities. (Sec. 102) Permits an enterprise zone business to elect a ten percent flat tax option. (Sec. 103) Excludes from gross income capital gains from the sale or exchange of a qualified zone asset (as defined by this Act) held for more than five years. (Sec. 104) Increases expensing limits for qualified zone property. (Sec. 105) Excludes from gross income dividends received from zone businesses. (Sec. 106) Increases the work opportunity tax credit and the categories of eligible individuals. Subtitle B: Contracting Set-Aside Reform - Amends the Small Business Act to revise the section 8(a) set-aside program to give preference to economically disadvantaged individuals and small business concerns (as defined by this Act). (Sec. 112) Makes technical and conforming amendments to: (1) specified Federal law; (2) the Federal Home Loan Bank Act; (3) the Small Business Economic Policy Act of 1980; (4) the Small Business Investment Act of 1958; (5) the Office of Federal Procurement Policy Act; (6) the Energy Policy Act of 1992; and (7) the Defense Production Act of 1950. Subtitle C: Small Business Mentor Program - Directs the Administrator of the Small Business Administration to establish a small business mentor program to aid businesses owned by economically disadvantaged individuals. Title II: Community Infrastructure - Exempts construction projects in empowerment zones, enterprise communities, and enterprise zones from Davis-Bacon Act (union) wage requirements. (Sec. 202) Amends the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 to increase community development block grant assistance to low- and moderate-income families. Reduces administrative and planning costs. Requires specified matching funds from wealthy areas. Title III: Safe Streets - Subtitle A: Mandatory Restitution - Amends Federal criminal law to require mandatory restitution for certain violent crimes. Makes such restitution a condition of probation. Sets forth: (1) an order of restitution for other crimes, including sexual exploitation and other abuse of children, and telemarketing fraud; and (2) a procedure for issuance and enforcement of a restitution order. Directs the United States Sentencing Commission and the Attorney General to promulgate related guidelines. (Sec. 310) Amends the Victims of Crime Act of 1984 to prohibit payments to delinquent debtors by State crime victim compensation programs. (Sec. 311) Authorizes grants to States for assistance and compensation to victims of terrorism or mass violence. Subtitle B: Asset Forfeiture Assistance - Amends the Controlled Substances Act and the Tariff Act of 1930 to provide high-crime communities with additional assets from forfeited property. Title IV: Educational Opportunity - Makes specified funding available for demonstration projects to provide low-income families in high poverty areas with educational certificates. Title V: Family Opportunity - Prohibits racial, religious, or ethnic adoption placement discrimination. Sets forth penalties. Provides for a private right of action. States that this title shall not effect application of the Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978. (Sec. 503) Repeals specified provisions of the Improving America's Schools Act of 1994. Title VI: Volunteer Protection - Encourages States to provide volunteers with protection from lawsuits. Limits tort liability for volunteers, with specified exceptions. Increases specified block grant allotments to certifying States with volunteer protections. Title VII: Spectrum Auction - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to repeal existing electromagnetic spectrum allocation provisions. Requires competitive bidding for such contracts, with specified exceptions.
Bill· SS. 1530 (104th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 January 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Establishment of the Naval Petroleum Reserves Corporation Title II: Privatization of the Corporation Naval Petroleum Reserves and Naval Oil Shale Reserves Corporation Act of 1996 - Title I: Establishment of the Naval Petroleum Reserves Corporation - Establishes as a for-profit Government corporation the Naval Petroleum Reserves and Naval Oil Shale Reserves Corporation to have exclusive jurisdiction and control over all U.S. naval petroleum and naval oil shale reserves (reserves). Outlines provisions concerning: (1) general and specific powers and functions of the Corporation, including the exploration, prospecting, development, use, production, and operation of the reserves; (2) the naming of a Chief Executive Officer for the Corporation; (3) the appointment of Corporation officers and employees, as well as the transfer to the Corporation from the Department of Defense (DOD) of officers and employees performing functions transferred to the Corporation; (4) Corporation payment to appropriate Government funds and accounts for the provision of employee benefits; (5) Corporation exemption from State and local taxes; (6) the nonapplicability of Federal laws governing acquisition and disposal; (7) Corporation exemption from Federal administrative procedure requirements; (8) transfer to the Corporation of appropriate DOD assets and liabilities; and (9) Corporation interest payments to the Treasury for the use of Federal financial capital. Title II: Privatization of the Corporation - Requires the Corporation, within five years after its establishment, to prepare and transmit to the President and the Congress a strategic plan for transferring Corporation ownership to private investors. Requires such plan to include the consideration of alternative means for such transfer. Allows a phased transfer. Authorizes the Corporation to implement the plan if it determines that such privatization will result in a return to the United States at least equal to the Corporation's net present value. Requires the plan to be approved by the President and requires the Corporation to notify the Congress of its intent to implement the plan. Directs the Comptroller General, within 30 days after such notification, to report to the Congress an evaluation of the plan, including ongoing obligations and revenues gained. Prohibits the Corporation from implementing such plan until at least 60 days after congressional notification. Requires proceeds from the sale of Corporation capital stock to be deposited in the general fund of the Treasury.
Bill· HRH.R. 2903 (104th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 26 January 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Banking, Housing, and Related Provisions Title II: Spectrum Allocation Provisions Title III: Medicaid Title IV: Medicare Title V: Welfare Reform Title VI: Federal Retirement Provisions Title VII: Veterans and Related Provisions Title VIII: Assets Sales, User Fees, and other Mandatory Provisions Title IX: Revenues Title X: Budget Enforcement Balanced Budget Act of 1995 for Economic Growth and Fairness - Title I: Banking, Housing, and Related Provisions - Subtitle A: Financial Institutions - Directs the Board of Directors of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to impose a special assessment on the Savings Association Insurance Fund (SAIF)-assessable deposits of each insured depository institution at a rate applicable to all such institutions that the Board, in its sole discretion, determines will cause the SAIF to achieve the designated reserve ratio on the first business day of January 1996. Allows the Board to exempt weak institutions from such assessment. Mandates exemption from such assessment for certain newly chartered and other specified institutions, but requires such institutions to pay semiannual assessments at certain former rates during calendar years 1996 through 1999. (Sec. 2011) (sic) Authorizes certain institutions facing hardship as a result of the special assessment to elect to pay it in two assessments, plus a third supplemental special assessment, determined according to specified formulae. Prescribes adjustments of the special assessment for Bank Insurance Fund (BIF) member banks and certain savings associations. (Sec. 2012) Amends the Federal Home Loan Bank Act (FHLBA) and the Federal Deposit Insurance Act (FDIA) to revise the assessment authority of the Financing Corporation (FICO), extending FICO assessments to all depository institutions insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) instead of SAIF members only. Repeals specified limits on the amount that may be assessed. (Sec. 2013) Declares that the SAIF and the BIF shall be merged into the Deposit Insurance Fund, which shall have a Special Reserve for any excess of the SAIF reserve ratio over the designated reserve ratio. Makes conforming amendments to FHLBA and FDIA. (Sec. 2015) Prescribes procedural guidelines with respect to the refund of assessed payments in a deposit insurance fund in excess of the designated reserve amount. (Sec. 2016) Amends the FDIA to declare that assessment rates for SAIF members may not be less than assessment rates for BIF members. (Sec. 2017) Prohibits the FDIC Board of Directors from setting semi-annual assessments in excess of the amount needed to maintain or achieve the designated reserve ratio of a deposit insurance fund. (Sec. 2018) Terminates as of December 31, 1995, the authority of the Thrift Depositor Protection Oversight Board to establish positions for and pay compensation and benefits to officers and employees, except for 18 individuals to carry out Board functions through May 1, 1996. Subtitle B: Housing - Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 with respect to section 8 low-income housing rental increases (including considerations of operating costs, certificate program participation, and same-family occupancy). (Sec. 2052) Amends the National Housing Act to authorize: (1) insurance benefits to mortgagees for foreclosure avoidance activities; and (2) mortgagor assistance activities (mortgage payments or mortgage assignment to the Secretary of Housing and Human Development). Title II: Communications and Spectrum Allocation Provisions - Amends the Communications Act of 1934 (the Act) to state that certain competitive bidding requirements shall not apply to licenses or construction permits issued by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC): (1) that, as the result of the FCC carrying out specified obligations, are not mutually exclusive; (2) for public safety radio services, including Government uses that protect the safety of life, health, and property and that are not made commercially available to the public; or (3) for initial licenses or construction permits for new terrestrial broadcast digital television (TV) services assigned by the FCC to existing terrestrial broadcast licensees to replace their current TV licenses, unless specified conditions are met. Prohibits the FCC from assigning initial licenses or construction permits to terrestrial commercial TV broadcast licensees to replace their existing broadcast licenses before November 15, 1996, except as provided pursuant to this Act. Extends through FY 2002 the authority of the FCC to grant such licenses or permits. (Sec. 3001) (sic) Requires the FCC to complete all actions necessary to permit the assignment, by September 30, 2002, by competitive bidding of licenses for the use of bands of frequencies that: (1) individually span not less than 25 megahertz (mhz.), unless a combination of smaller bands can reasonably be expected to product greater receipts; (2) in the aggregate span not less than 100 mhz.; (3) are located below three gigahertz (ghz.); and (4) as of this Act's enactment date have not been designated by FCC regulation for assignment, identified by the Secretary of Commerce pursuant to provisions of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration Organization Act (NTIAO), or reserved for Government use pursuant to the Act. Directs the FCC to conduct competitive bidding for not less than one-half of such aggregate spectrum by September 30, 2000. Requires the FCC, in making available bands of frequencies for competitive bidding, to: (1) promote the most efficient use of the spectrum; (2) take into account the cost to incumbent licensees of relocating existing uses to other bands of frequencies or other means of communication and the needs of public safety radio services; (3) comply with the requirements of international agreements concerning spectrum allocations; and (4) take into account the costs to satellite service providers that could result from multiple auctions of like spectrum internationally for global satellite systems. Directs the FCC to notify the Secretary if the FCC: (1) is unable to provide for the effective relocation of incumbent licensees to frequencies available for assignment; and (2) has identified bands of frequencies that are suitable for the relocation of such licensees and that are allocated for Government use but that could be reallocated pursuant to the NTIAO Act. Amends the NTIAO Act to require the Secretary, upon receiving a notice from the FCC pursuant to this Act, to prepare and submit to the President and the Congress a report recommending for reallocation for use other than by Government stations of bands of frequencies that are suitable for the uses identified in the FCC's notice. Authorizes any Federal entity which operates a Government station to accept payment in advance or in-kind reimbursement of costs, or a combination thereof, from any person to defray entirely the expenses of relocating the Federal entity's operations from one or more radio spectrum frequencies to other frequencies. Directs that any such payment be deposited in the account of such Federal entity in the Treasury. Authorizes any person seeking to relocate a Government station that has been assigned a frequency within a band allocated for mixed Federal and non-Federal use to submit a petition for such relocation to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). Directs NTIA to limit or terminate the Government station's operating license when certain requirements are met. Specifies that if, within one year after the relocation, the Government station demonstrates to the FCC that the new facilities or spectrum are not comparable to those from which the Government station was relocated, the person seeking such relocation must take reasonable steps to remedy any defects or pay the Federal entity for the costs of returning the Government station to the spectrum from which such station was relocated. Sets forth provisions regarding: (1) Federal action to expedite spectrum transfer; (2) identification and reallocation of auctionable frequencies; and (3) allocation and assignment of frequencies identified in the second reallocation report. (Sec. 3002) Prohibits any analog TV license from being renewed for a period that extends beyond the earlier of December 31, 2005, or one year after the FCC finds, based on annual surveys, that at least 95 percent of households in the United States have the capability to receive and display TV signals, other than TV signals transmitted pursuant to an analog TV license. Requires that, following such date, only advanced TV licenses be issued. Requires the Department of Commerce, for each calendar year from 1998 to 2005, to conduct a survey to estimate the percentage of U.S. households that have the capability to receive and display TV signals other than those transmitted pursuant to an analog TV license. Directs that licensees for new services be selected by competitive bidding. Requires the FCC to: (1) ensure that, as analog TV licenses expire, spectrum previously used for the broadcast of analog TV is reclaimed and organized in such manner as to maximize the deployment of new and existing services; and (2) complete the competitive bidding procedure by March 1, 2002. Requires the FCC to establish procedures to ensure that, within the year prior to the reversion date, the advanced TV licensees provide each requesting household without the capability to receive and display TV signals other than those transmitted pursuant to an analog TV license with the capability to receive and display advanced TV service. Mandates that each advanced TV service licensee provide, each day for the duration of its license, at least one non-subscription TV service that meets or exceeds minimum technical and other standards established by the FCC, as well as any other regulations pursuant to the Act and the Children's TV Act of 1990. Directs the FCC: (1) in setting such minimum technical standards, to ensure that picture and audio quality are at least as good as provided to recipients under current FCC rules for National Television Systems Committee signals and to adopt other requirements to assure the quality of the signal used to provide advanced TV services; and (2) revoke the license of any advanced TV licensee who fails to meet this condition of the license. Requires the FCC to promulgate regulations to assure the dissemination of converter boxes or devices necessary to ensure access to digital TV to all households that desire such access at a reasonable cost. Title III: Medicaid - Amends title XIX (Medicaid) of the Social Security Act (SSA) for the following purposes. (Sec. 201) (sic) Sets a prescribed limit on the total amount of payments in grant awards to a State under Medicaid for FY 1997 through 2002 for each separate group of listed Medicaid beneficiaries in the State based on the total net matchable Medicaid expenditures for the State for the fiscal year, with certain exceptions for States providing medical assistance pursuant to an approved waiver and for certain Medicare cost-sharing, information system, Indian health and other specified expenditures. Declares that such limitation shall not be construed as applying to payments for the purchase and delivery of qualified pediatric vaccines. Details enforcement-related provisions for assuring actual payments to States consistent with such limitation. Provides for application of enhanced matching under State payment provisions for development of certain information reporting systems. Title IV: Medicare Savings - Amends SSA title XVIII (Medicare) part A to outline various specified changes related to the Hospital Insurance program under it that are designed to achieve Medicare savings through such measures involving, among other things: (1) adjustments for estimated case mix increase when recalibrating diagnosis-related group (DRG) prospective payment system (PPS) rates for inpatient hospital services; (2) temporary additional reduction in PPS capital and hospital-specific rates; (3) reductions in adjustments for disproportionate share hospitals (DSH) and indirect medical education (IME); (4) elimination of DSH and IME payments attributable to outlier payments; (5) reductions to capital payments for PPS-exempt hospitals; (6) basing updates to per diem cost limits effective for FY 1996 for skilled nursing facilities on limits for FY 1993, with payment for such facilities made on an interim prospective basis until FY 1999 when a full PPS is to be implemented; (7) salary equivalency guidelines for various specified therapy services; (8) removal of graduate medical education (GME), IME, and DSH payments from the calculation of the adjusted average per capita cost; (9) additional payments to hospitals for managed care enrollees; (10) rebasing the target amount and eliminating the volume adjustment for sole community hospitals; (11) expanding the essential access community hospitals (EACH) program (renamed the rural primary care hospital program) to all States with an end to new EACH designations, a limitation on length of inpatient stays, and certain payment-related changes; and (12) changes in the treatment of certain transfer cases. (Sec. 11105) (sic) Establishes within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) the National Commission on Medical Education and Workforce Priorities to develop and recommend to the HHS Secretary specific policies concerning health centers and the health care workforce. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 11118) Outlines various specified changes in certain provisions related to Medicare's Supplementary Medical Insurance program under SSA title XVIII part B that are designed to achieve Medicare savings and provide for coverage of additional benefits through such measures involving, among other things: (1) limited program coverage of respite services (the temporary care provided to individuals for the purpose of ensuring periodic time-off for co-resident primary informal caregivers); (2) new updates for physician services; (3) incentives to control high volume for in-hospital physicians' services; (4) reduced payment increases for ambulatory surgical center services for FY 1996 through 2002; (5) reductions in monthly payment amounts for oxygen and oxygen equipment; (6) payment limits for health maintenance organizations (HMOs) and competitive medical plans (CMPs); and (7) program coverage of annual screening mammography for women over age 49, and of colorectal screening. (Sec. 11128) Waives cost-sharing for mammography. (Sec. 11131) Establishes set payment amounts for certain vaccines and ties annual increases in them to increases in the yearly update for physicians' services for the particular year involved. Eliminates coinsurance and deductible for hepatitis B vaccine. (Sec. 11141) Directs the HHS Secretary to use a competitive process to contract with centers of excellence for cataract surgery, coronary artery by-pass surgery, and such other services as the Secretary determines to be appropriate, with payment for such services to be made on the basis of specified negotiated or all-inclusive rates. Requires the amount of payment made by the HHS Secretary to the center for covered services to be less than the aggregate amount of payments that would have otherwise been made to it had not such process been in effect. Requires that a portion of such savings be rebated to each individual to whom such services are furnished. (Sec. 11142) Restructures payment policy for home health services, among other things: (1) temporarily basing updates to per visit cost limits on pre-July 1, 1994 levels; (2) providing interim reduced cost limits for FY 1997 through 1999; (3) directing the HHS Secretary, for cost reporting periods beginning on or after FY 2000, to provide for payments for the services in accordance with a PPS which pays home health agencies on a per episode basis; (4) basing payment on the location where they are furnished; and (5) establishing a post-hospital home health benefit under Medicare part A while transferring other home health services to Medicare part B. (Sec. 11148) Provides for permanent extension of certain secondary payer provisions under Medicare, including those for the working disabled. (Sec. 11161) Modifies Medicare part B premium provisions, directing the HHS Secretary, during each September, to determine and promulgate a monthly premium rate for the succeeding calendar year equal to 50 percent of the monthly actuarial rate for enrollees age 65 and over for that succeeding calendar year. Subtitle B: Expanded Medicare Choice - Gives Medicare a managed care component under a new part C (Managed Care Organizations) under which every individual entitled to benefits under Medicare part A and enrolled under Medicare part B (or enrolled under part B only) shall be eligible to enroll with any eligible organization contracting with the HHS Secretary to serve the geographic area in which the individual resides. Extends to such individuals a broader choice of managed care coverage through qualified HMOs, CMPs, preferred provider organizations, or provider sponsored organizations (PSOs). Delineates the types of benefits offered by each managed care organization or plan, requiring certain minimum services, with supplemental benefits subject to the Secretary's approval and provided at the enrollees' option. Outlines other program particulars regarding internal quality assurance, payment for services, and sanctions for noncompliance with program requirements. (Sec. 11203) Directs the HHS Secretary to develop standards for fiscal soundness and requirements against the risk of insolvency for PSOs that have entered into contracts under Medicare part C. (Sec. 11204) Provides for the applicability of Medicare rates to enrollees who use an out-of-plan provider of services. (Sec. 11205) Directs the HHS Secretary to provide for regulations requiring the collection, analysis, and reporting of data that will permit measurement of outcomes and other indices of the quality of managed care plans under contract with the Secretary. (Sec. 11206) Allows the HHS Secretary to waive certain HMO- and CMP-related requirements under Medicare with regard to certain described experiments and demonstration projects under provisions for economy while maintaining or improving quality in health services (competitive pricing demonstrations). Requires the HHS Secretary to report to the Congress specific recommendations for a new payment methodology for eligible organizations, with contracts under Medicare part C to be based on the results of such demonstrations. (Sec. 11207) Eliminates the health care prepayment plan option for entities eligible to participate under Medicare part C. (Sec. 11208) Provides various specified changes under the Medicare supplemental policy (Medigap) program, including uniform enrollment periods and community-rated premiums. (Sec. 11209) Directs the HHS Secretary to develop a standard package of benefits (in addition to those already covered under Medicare) that may be offered by eligible organizations under Medicare part C. Requires the HHS Secretary to request the National Association of Insurance Commissioners to examine the standard benefit packages for Medigap policies and recommend any restructuring needed in order to facilitate to the maximum extent feasible comparison across such policies and benefits offered by eligible organizations. Requires the HHS Secretary, after taking into account any such recommendations, to restructure such packages as needed. Provides during FY 1996 through 2000 for Medicaid payments to certain States with large populations of illegal immigrants to pay health care providers for services to such populations. (Sec. 11303) Revises Medicaid provisions regarding a State's erroneous excess payments for medical assistance, replacing references to such payments with references to erroneous enrollments, among other changes. (Sec. 11311) Gives States the option of making medical assistance under Medicaid available to certain groups of individuals who would otherwise be ineligible for such assistance. Provides for the disregard of such additional enrollees in calculating the Federal payment limit. (Sec. 11312) Places restrictions on certain authority under SSA title XI for new Medicaid eligibility expansion demonstrations. (Sec. 11313) Provides for an upper income limit on "less restrictive" eligibility methodologies. (Sec. 11321) Includes the provision of Medicaid items and services through a primary care case management system as a State Medicaid plan option. (Sec. 11322) Allows States to require Medicaid-eligible individuals to enroll with an HMO or a primary care case manager provided certain guidelines are followed. (Sec. 11323) Eliminates certain Medicaid restrictions on risk contracts. (Sec. 11324) Provides six-month guaranteed eligibility for all individuals enrolled in Medicaid managed care. (Sec. 11325) Requires State Medicaid plan requirements to ensure quality of and access to care under managed care plans. (Sec. 11331) Provides for home- and community-based services as a State option under Medicaid without need for a waiver. (Sec. 11332) Repeals Medicaid provisions for the enrollment of individuals under group health plans. Gives States the option of purchasing health insurance, or paying the costs of health insurance, for enrollees in providing medical assistance under the Medicaid program. (Sec. 11333) Modifies provisions for an extension of eligibility for medical assistance under Medicaid that concern the State "wrap-around" option, in which a State may pay a family's expenses for premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, and similar costs for health insurance or other health coverage offered by an employer of the caretaker relative or by an employer of the absent parent of a dependent child. Provides that, in the case of such coverage offered by an employer of the caretaker relative, the State may limit the amount of any deductible or copayment for any health care item or service to the applicable portion of the amount the State would pay if such item or service had been furnished by a provider participating in the program under the State Medicaid plan. Eliminates the premium limit under provisions allowing a State to impose a premium for a family for additional extended coverage. Makes reporting requirements under provisions concerning an additional six-month extension optional. Gives States the option to terminate the benefits under such extension for a failure to report pursuant to such requirements. (Sec. 11341) Requires with respect to State Medicaid plans a public process for determining the rates of payment for nursing facility services and services of intermediate care facilities for the mentally retarded. Requires the HHS Secretary to study and report to the Congress with regard to such rate setting and other specified matters. (Sec. 11343) Repeals Medicaid provisions for assuring certain payment levels for obstetrical and pediatric services. (Sec. 11351) Modifies Medicaid mechanized claims processing and information retrieval system requirements. (Sec. 11352) Eliminates certain personnel requirements under State Medicaid plan administrative provisions. (Sec. 11353) Repeals requirements under such provisions for cooperative arrangements with State health and vocational rehabilitation services agencies. (Sec. 11355) Requires appropriate State review of mentally ill or mentally retarded nursing facility residents under Medicaid upon a significant change in the resident's physical or mental condition. (Sec. 11356) Modifies certain provisions for approving nurse aide training and competency evaluation programs. (Sec. 11357) Allows a State to submit to the HHS Secretary for approval a single State plan to carry out: (1) the long-term care grant program established by subtitle E (sic); (2) the program of health insurance for the temporarily unemployed established by subtitle G (sic); and (3) the Medicaid program. (Sec. 11358) Requires State Medicaid plans to provide for a public process for developing State plan amendments. Subtitle D (sic): Fraud and Abuse - Federal Health Care Payment Integrity Act of 1995 - Amends SSA title XI civil monetary penalty provisions, with changes: (1) extending the applicability of such provisions to any Federal health care program; (2) outlining additional instances in which the HHS Secretary may impose civil money penalties, including for offering inducements to individuals enrolled under Federal health programs; and (3) modifying the amounts of various penalties and assessments. (Sec. 11403) Modifies provisions for the exclusion of certain individuals and entities from participation in Medicare and State health care programs, establishing certain minimum periods of exclusion for certain individuals and entities subject to permissive exclusion from Medicare and State health care programs, among other changes. (Sec. 11404) Amends Federal criminal laws to cover illegal remuneration with respect to health care benefit programs. (Sec. 11405) Repeals the prerequisite that a health care practitioner or person be determined "unwilling or unable" to comply substantially with a corrective action plan before sanctions may be imposed (thus permitting the HHS Secretary to exclude such practitioner or person from eligibility to provide services for failure to comply with a corrective action plan, regardless of circumstances). (Sec. 11406) Directs the HHS Secretary to establish a national health care fraud and abuse data collection program for the reporting of final adverse actions against health care providers, suppliers, or practitioners by government agencies and Federal health care programs. Provides that the information in the program database shall be available to Federal and State government agencies, health plans, and the public pursuant to procedures that the HHS Secretary shall provide, with certain fees allowed for disclosure. (Sec. 11407) Expands the various authorities of State Medicaid fraud control units, including to allow them to investigate and prosecute patient abuse in non-Medicaid board and care facilities. (Sec. 11408) Provides for the recovery of Medicare overpayments from bankrupt providers. (Sec. 11409) Authorizes the HHS Secretary to make grants to States for the revocation of licenses of unqualified providers. (Sec. 11410) Amends Federal criminal laws to provide for the authorization of interception of wire, oral, or electronic communications in connection with health care fraud. (Sec. 11421) Establishes under SSA title XI the new Medicare Anti-Fraud and Abuse Program to provide funding out of the Medicare trust funds for the activities of the HHS Inspector General related to preventing and detecting fraud and abuse in the programs under SSA title XVIII and determining the accuracy and appropriateness of expenditures under such programs. (Sec. 11422) Establishes the Medicare beneficiary integrity system for the review of the activities of service providers, audits, and education of service providers and others with respect to payment issues under Medicare. (Sec. 11423) Establishes the Health Care Fraud and Abuse Control Account for covering the costs of activities designed to prevent and detect health care fraud and abuse and to promote economy and efficiency in Federal health care programs. (Sec. 11431) Makes various specified criminal law amendments covering matters relating to health care fraud through allowing fines or imprisonment for health care fraud violations, property forfeitures for certain Federal health care offenses, and certain sanctions for false statements relating to health care matters. Authorizes investigative demand procedures under certain conditions. (Sec. 11441) Provides for certain technical changes for coordinating Medicare benefits with those under primary plans, addressing such matters as when to file a claim and associated time limitations as well as claims between parties other than the United States. Revises Medicare secondary payer provisions concerning actions by the United States for double damages to condition such damages upon the entity's failure to demonstrate that it did not know, and could not have known, of its obligation to pay with respect to an item or service under a primary plan. (Sec. 11445) Repeals the excise tax under the Internal Revenue Code. (Sec. 11446) Mandates the provision by group health plans of certain information to HHS with respect to covered individuals entitled to Medicare benefits. Outlines similar requirements with respect to employers and employee organizations. (Sec. 11447) Makes certain technical changes under Medicare concerning minimum sizes of group health plans. (Sec. 11451) Provides for increased flexibility in contracting for Medicare claims processing by, among other means: (1) allowing carriers to include entities that are not insurance companies; (2) repealing cost reimbursement requirements; and (3) permitting initial contracts to be entered into without regard to any competition requirements. (Sec. 11461) Replaces the reasonable charge methodology under Medicare part B with fee schedules. (Sec. 11462) Provides, under Medicare part B, for the application of: (1) inherent reasonableness to surgical dressings; and (2) the competitive acquisition process to certain items and services, including laboratory services. (Sec. 11465) Makes certain changes in payments for clinical laboratory tests under Medicare part B. (Sec. 11471) Amends SSA title XI to authorize the HHS Secretary to require disclosing Medicare part A and B providers to provide the Secretary with their taxpayer identification numbers and other information for verification by the Secretary of the Treasury. (Sec. 11472) Amends SSA title XVIII to provide for the use of a wage index for an area in which home health services are furnished. Allows an individual to purchase or rent from a supplier an item of upgraded durable medical equipment for which payment would be made if the item was a standard one. Title V: Welfare Reform - Subtitle A: Temporary Employment Assistance - Replaces the current Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC) program under SSA title IV part A with the Temporary Employment Assistance (TEA) program for the purpose of providing assistance to families with needy children and assisting parents of such children to obtain and retain private sector work to the extent possible, and public sector or volunteer work if necessary, through the Work First Employment Block Grant (WORK FIRST) program established below. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 9101) Sets forth the elements for State TEA plans to be approved by the HHS Secretary, and effective in all political subdivisions in the State, including limits on the length of time for cash assistance, with specified exceptions for teen parents and individuals exempt from certain work requirements under this title because of illness or other specified reasons. Includes among such elements requirements for the State to: (1) assess the skills, prior work experience, and employability of each applicant for, or recipient of, TEA assistance who is age 18 or without a high school education and is not attending secondary school; (2) develop an individual responsibility plan (IRP) setting forth their job search, work, and educational obligations (including, at State option, appropriate substance abuse treatment) in order to receive the full amount of program assistance, with assistance denied after the third act of noncompliance with the plan; (3) place recipients of TEA assistance who have not become employed in the private sector within one year after signing an IRP in the first available slot in the State WORK FIRST program with certain exceptions for recipients who are ill, incapacitated, or of advanced age or who are enrolled in school or in educational or training programs that will lead to private sector employment; (4) require all applicants for, and recipients of, TEA assistance to cooperate in the establishment and enforcement of paternity and child support obligations; and (5) promote family preservation and stability. Denies TEA assistance for: (1) ten years to a person found to have fraudulently misrepresented residence in order to obtain assistance in two or more States; and (2) fugitive felons and probation and parole violators. Provides for the exchange of certain State TEA plan information with law enforcement agencies for the purpose of locating or apprehending such individuals. Outlines State TEA plan administrative elements, including requirements for a quality assurance system making use of a data collection and reporting system to promote accountability, continuous improvement, and integrity in State TEA and WORK FIRST programs. (Sec. 9201) Extends the applicability of Medicare eligibility for medical assistance to families that cease to be eligible for aid under SSA title IV part A after FY 2002. (Sec. 9202) Requires the applicable State agency to provide notice of the availability of the earned income tax credit to applicants and former recipients of TEA assistance, food stamps, and Medicaid. (Sec. 9203) Amends the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1990 to require inclusion on the W-4 form of a notice of availability of earned income tax and dependent care tax credit. (Sec. 9204) Provides for advance payment of the earned income tax credit through certain State demonstration programs under which participating residents shall receive advance earned income payments from a responsible State agency pursuant to a State Advance Payment Program in lieu of receiving earned income advance amounts from an employer. Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 9205) Amends the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 1990 to make various specified changes, including provisions to: (1) reauthorize the child care and development block grant program through FY 2002; (2) give priority in the use of funds under such program to families with an individual receiving TEA assistance while participating in education-, job-, or work-related programs under such program, and to families no longer qualifying for other child care because their TEA assistance was terminated because of increased income from employment; (3) authorize separate appropriations of Federal matching funds for child care services for eligible children out of which the State will be entitled to payments under a grant determined according to a specified formula; (4) decrease certain set-asides for improving the quality of child care and increasing the availability of early childhood development and before- and after-school care services, while repealing other related set-asides for conducting or expanding such services; and (5) direct the Secretary to establish a child care quality improvement incentive initiative to make funds available to States which have enhanced child care quality standards and licensing procedures or have progressed in implementing innovative teacher training programs. Eliminates State dependent care grants under the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981. Repeals the Child Development Associate Scholarship Assistance Act of 1985. (Sec. 9206) Amends the Internal Revenue Code to include as gross income Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits received by taxpayers under SSA title XVI, and make such benefits reportable. Provides that SSI benefits will not be taken into account for purposes of the earned income tax credit, and that adjusted gross income shall be determined without regard to any amount includable in gross income solely by reason of this paragraph. (Sec. 9207) Makes the dependent care credit refundable and phases it out for certain higher income taxpayers. Subtitle C: Work First (sic) - Replaces the current Job Opportunities and Basic Skills Training Program (JOBS) under SSA title IV part F with the WORK FIRST program (the Work First Employment Block Grant program) under which States have the option of providing a wide variety of time-limited work-related assistance, pursuant to an approved State plan, to TEA recipients through certain minimum hours of participation in any of various specified program components ranging from microenterprise initiatives to separate workfare and job placement voucher programs established by the State under new SSA title IV parts G and H (but not both), with the goal of enabling the participant to find and hold a full-time unsubsidized position, preferably in the private sector, in a cost-effective fashion. (Sec. 9301) Outlines in detail WORK FIRST program components, including community service and subsidized private sector job initiatives under the workfare program for helping participants move into the private labor market, and job placement voucher programs' funding of subsidized temporary jobs out of the funds that would otherwise be used to provide individuals with TEA assistance or food stamps. Requires participating States to achieve certain outlined participation rates over a specified fiscal year period through 2003 and later. Expresses the sense of the Congress that States should target individuals who have not attained age 25 for participation in the WORK FIRST program in order to break the cycle of welfare dependency. Subtitle D: Family Responsibility and Improved Child Support Enforcement - Amends SSA title IV part D (Child Support and Establishment of Paternity) with regard to eligibility and other matters concerning part D program clients, and includes among the changes made the following. (Sec. 9401) Requires each State to have in effect laws requiring procedures under which every child support order established or modified in the State on or after October 1, 1998, is recorded in a single centralized automated case registry established pursuant to this subtitle for the collection from income withholding, and prompt disbursement (including interstate collection and disbursement), of amounts payable as support under orders in all cases being enforced by the State unless the parties to the order opt out of such payment arrangement. Provides for such system to be coordinated with the automated data system established above. (Sec. 9402) Establishes procedures governing the distribution of child support payments where the family is, and is not, on TEA assistance, with certain alternative distributions provided for. (Sec. 9403) Adds State child and spousal support plan requirements for due process rights and privacy safeguards for affected parties in child support and paternity establishment cases. (Sec. 9411) Amends SSA title IV part D with regard to program administration and funding, and includes among the changes made: (1) an increased Federal matching rate for the total amounts expended by the State per quarter for operation of its part D plan; (2) new performance-based incentive adjustments to such rate as well as new penalties in the form of reduced State payments for, among other reasons, States failing to achieve the paternity establishment percentage or the appropriate level of overall performance in child support enforcement; (3) new Federal and State reviews and audits of State child support and paternity establishment program accomplishments with respect to applicable performance indicators; (4) the establishment of procedures to be followed by States for collecting and reporting information required to be provided under SSA title IV part D as well as uniform definitions to be applied in following such procedures; and (5) requirements for appropriate State agencies to have in operation a single statewide automated data processing and information retrieval system for use in program management. (Sec. 9416) Requires the HHS Secretary to study and report to the Congress on the staffing of each State child support enforcement program to examine staffing practices used by the States. (Sec. 9417) Provides certain funding for secretarial assistance to State child support enforcement programs. (Sec. 9421) Makes various specified changes under SSA title IV part D with regard to locate and case tracking through the newly provided for central case registry, including exchanges of data with an expanded Federal Parent Locator Service (FPLS) (containing among other things a directory of information supplied by employers on newly hired individuals) and State agencies administering TEA and Medicaid programs. (Sec. 9423) Revises income withholding, providing that all child support orders issued (or modified) before October 1, 1996, which are not otherwise subject to withholding, shall become subject to withholding from wages if arrearages occur without the need for a judicial or administrative hearing. (Sec. 9425) Provides for an expanded FPLS, including an automated Data Bank of Child Support Orders and an automated Directory of New Hires. (Sec. 9426) Adds State law requirements for procedures requiring the recording of social security numbers of both parents on marriage licenses and divorce decrees and on birth records and child support and paternity orders. (Sec. 9431) Requires State adoption, with certain modifications and additions, of the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act, as approved by the National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State Laws in August, 1992, for use in the State on and after January 1, 1997. (Sec. 9432) Modifies the Federal judicial code with respect to full faith and credit for child support orders, among other changes specifying rules for courts to follow if one or more child support orders have been issued in the State (or another State) with regard to an obligor and a child in determining which order to recognize for purposes of continuing, exclusive jurisdiction and enforcement. (Sec. 9433) Adds State law requirements for expedited procedures for ordering genetic testing, entering default orders, and other specified purposes connected with paternity establishment and the establishment or modification of support obligations. (Sec. 9441) Expresses the sense of the Congress that social services should be provided in hospitals to women who have become pregnant as a result of rape or incest. (Sec. 9442) Makes various specified changes with regard to paternity establishment, making it a requirement under the State plan for outreach activities aimed at voluntary paternity establishment, and providing for an increased base matching rate for payments to the States, among other changes. Modifies the cooperation requirement and good cause exception. (Sec. 9451) Establishes the National Child Support Guidelines Commission to develop a national child support guideline for congressional consideration that is based on a study of various guideline models. (Sec. 9452) Restructures procedures for the review and adjustment of child support orders. (Sec. 9461) Makes a variety of changes under SSA title IV part D for the enforcement (including international enforcement) of child support orders, including: (1) elimination of disparities in the treatment of assigned and non-assigned arrearages under SSA title IV part D provisions for the collection of past-due support from Federal tax refunds; (2) certain actions by the State, such as the placement of liens on motor vehicle titles of individuals owing arrears of child support, voiding of fraudulent transfers by individuals to avoid payment to a child support creditor, and withholding or suspension of driver's and professional and occupational licenses of individuals owing overdue child support, in order to ensure compliance with support orders; (3) an extended statute of limitations for collection of support arrearages as well as the imposition of charges for such arrearages; (4) action by the Department of State denying or otherwise restricting passports for individuals with an arrearage of child support in excess of $5,000; (5) treatment by the State of international child support cases as interstate cases; and (6) making grandparents liable for the financial support of the children of their minor children. Revises and consolidates the authorities under SSA title IV part D for collecting support from Federal employees, and outlines the framework for a centralized personnel locator service for the Department of Defense for enforcement of the child support obligations of members of the armed forces. (Sec. 9468) Revises procedures for State reporting of support arrearages to credit bureaus. (Sec. 9472) Expresses the sense of the Congress that: (1) the United States should ratify the United Nations Convention of 1956; and (2) the States should develop programs, such as the State of Wisconsin's Children's First Program, designed to work with noncustodial parents who are unable to meet their child support obligations. (Sec. 9481) Amends the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) to include within the definition of "medical child support order" an order issued through a State administrative process. (Sec. 9491) Amends the Food Stamp Act of 1977 to: (1) give the applicable State administrative agencies the option of requiring the cooperation of custodial and non-custodial parents with child support agencies in establishing paternity or providing support, except for certain good cause reasons, before they can participate in the food stamp program; and (2) provide States with a similar option with regard to individual family members delinquent in making any monthly child support payment. Subtitle E: Teen Pregnancy and Family Stability - Gives States the option of denying TEA assistance to families having additional children (other than as a result of rape or incest) while being a recipient of such aid or during the six month period ending with the date the family applied for such aid. (Sec. 9502) Requires State TEA plans to require any unmarried individual under age 18 who is pregnant or has a needy child in his or her care to reside in an adult-supervised living arrangement in order to receive TEA assistance (such aid to be provided to the parent, legal guardian, or other adult relative on behalf of such individual and child) unless the State agency determines that the individual's current living arrangement is appropriate for an individual with no parent or legal guardian of his or her own who is living and whose whereabouts are known. (Sec. 9503) Amends title XX (Block Grants to States for Social Services) to require the Secretaries of Education and of HHS and the Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation for National and Community Service to establish the National Clearinghouse on Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention Programs to serve as a national information and data clearinghouse and as a training, technical assistance, and material development source for adolescent pregnancy prevention programs. (Sec. 9504) Requires completion of high school or other educational training for teen parents required under the TEA program to participate in the WORK FIRST program. Gives the States the option of providing additional incentives and penalties to encourage teen parents to complete high school and participate in parenting activities. (Sec. 9505) Denies Federal housing benefits to minor heads of household who bear children out-of-wedlock until they attain age 18 unless: (1) after the birth of the child the individual marries the child's biological father, or, if the biological parent has legal custody of the child, an individual who legally adopts the child; (2) the individual is a biological and custodial parent of another child who was not born out-of-wedlock; (3) eligibility for such Federal housing assistance is based in whole or in part on any disability or handicap of a member of the household; or (4) the State deems it necessary. (Sec. 9506) Gives States the option to deny TEA assistance to minor parents, while still preserving each family member's Medicaid eligibility, and allowing the State to provide the family with vouchers, in amounts not exceeding the value of any such reduction in assistance, that may be used only to pay for goods and services suitable for the care of the child and the costs of the adult-supervised supportive living arrangement in which the parent and child live. Subtitle F: SSI Reform - Revises the eligibility rules for children, with corresponding changes to childhood SSI regulations: (1) modifying the medical criteria for evaluation of mental and emotional disorders by eliminating references to maladaptive behavior in the domain of personal-behavioral function; and (2) discontinuing the use of individualized functional assessments for children. Requires the Commissioner of Social Security to redetermine the eligibility of any individual under age 18 who is receiving SSI benefits based on a disability as of the date of the enactment of this Act, and whose eligibility for such benefits may terminate by reason of this subtitle. (Sec. 9602) Provides that at least every three years the Commissioner shall review the continued SSI eligibility of each individual who has not attained age 18 and is eligible for such benefits by reason of an impairment (or combination of impairments) which may improve (or, if the Commissioner chooses, which is unlikely to improve). Requires a parent or guardian of a recipient whose case is so reviewed to present, at the time of review, evidence demonstrating that the recipient is, and has been, receiving treatment, to the extent considered medically necessary and available, of the condition which was the basis for providing benefits under the SSI program. Provides that, if an individual is eligible for SSI benefits by reason of disability for the month preceding the month in which the individual attains age 18, the Commissioner shall redetermine such eligibility: (1) during the one year period beginning on the individual's 18th birthday; and (2) by applying the criteria used in determining the initial eligibility for applicants who have attained age 18. Outlines specific requirements governing: (1) continuing disability reviews for low birth weight babies; and (2) benefit payments through representative payees to eligible individuals and their spouses. (Sec. 9604) Amends SSA title XVI to provide for the denial of SSI benefits for drug addicts and alcoholics whose alcoholism or drug addiction would be a contributing factor towards the individual's disability. Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to provide funding to the Director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse to expand the availability of drug treatment and for expenditure on the medication development project to improve drug abuse and drug treatment research. (Sec. 9605) Denies SSI benefits for: (1) ten years to individuals found to have fraudulently misrepresented residence in order to obtain benefits simultaneously in two or more States; and (2) fugitive felons and probation and parole violators. Provides for the exchange of certain SSI information with law enforcement agencies for locating or apprehending recipients who are fugitive felons or probation and parole violators. Subtitle D (sic): Supplemental Security Income - Provides that if the Commissioner determines that an individual, age 18 or older, is eligible to receive SSI benefits as a result of a disability, the Commissioner shall, at the time of the determination, either exempt the individual from an eligibility review or establish a schedule for reviewing the individual's continuing eligibility in accordance with specified guidelines. (Sec. 9607) Allows the Commissioner to revise such a determination and schedule a review if he or she obtains credible evidence that an individual may no longer be eligible for benefits or the Commissioner determines that a review is necessary to maintain the integrity of the SSI program. Provides that such reviews may be conducted by the applicable State agency or the Commissioner, whichever is appropriate. Subtitle H (sic): Treatment of Aliens - Extends the period of sponsor attribution of income and resources (to an alien) under the statewide TEA, SSI, and food stamp programs through the date (if any) of such alien's citizenship. Sets forth exceptions based upon age, military or veteran status, family status, domestic violence, or taxpayer status. (Permits Medicaid eligibility.) Amends the Social Security Act to set forth TEA rules regarding income and resource attribution. (Sec. 9802) Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to set forth rules for sponsor affidavits of support. (Sec. 9803) Extends affidavit of support requirements to family-related and diversity immigrants. (Sec. 6102) (sic) Amends the Social Security Act to extend (and reduce from current levels) appropriations for State block grants for social services. (Sec. 120011) The Food Stamp Act Amendments of 1995 - Amends the Food Stamp Act of 1997 to treat children who are at least 18 years old and are themselves parents living with their children or married and living with their spouse as part of an existing household rather than as a separate household. (Sec. 12012) (sic) Revises thrifty food plan provisions. (Sec. 12013) Reduces the age for excluding student earnings from food stamp program (program) household income determinations. Includes energy assistance payments in household income determinations. (Sec. 12015) Revises and extends on a declining scale standard deduction provisions. (Sec. 12016) Authorizes States to make standard utility allowances mandatory. (Sec. 12017) Eliminates the October 1, 1996, specified auto asset increase. (Sec. 12018) Authorizes States to require cooperation with child support enforcement agencies as a prerequisite for program participation. (Sec. 12020) Eliminates the minimum allotment annual adjustment provision. (Sec. 12022) Prohibits allotment increases based upon household income reductions resulting from public assistance program penalties. (Sec. 12023) Permits States to use income and eligibility verification systems other than specified methods under the Social Security Act. (Sec. 12024) Expands claims collection methods. (Sec. 12031) Amends the National School Lunch Act to revise day care reimbursement provisions, including sponsor payments. (Sec. 12032) Revises reimbursement rate adjustment provisions for: (1) commodities; (2) special assistance funds; (3) the summer food service program; (4) family or group day care sponsors; (5) the special milk program; and (6) the breakfast program. (Sec. 12033) Amends the Child Nutrition Act to eliminate start-up and expansion grants. (Sec. 12034) Authorizes appropriations through FY 2002 for nutrition education and training. (Current authorization is permanent.) (Sec. 12035) Amends the National School Lunch Act to reduce the minimum amount of commodity assistance. Title X (sic): Food Stamps and Commodity Distribution - Food Stamp Reform and Commodity Distribution Act of 1995 - Subtitle A: Food Stamp Program - Amends the Food Stamp Act of 1977 to establish a program certification period of up to 24 months for households whose adult members are elderly or disabled. (Sec. 1012) (sic) Expands the definition of "coupon". (Sec. 1016) Revises the definition of "homeless individual" to limit the length of time a person may temporarily live in another person's residence. (Sec. 1023) Increases penalties for certain program violations. (Sec. 1024) Disqualifies permanently an individual convicted of specified coupon violations. (Sec. 1027) Revises employment and training provisions. Extends funding authorizations. (Sec. 1030) Disqualifies a fleeing felon from program participation. (Sec. 1034) Directs (with a waiver for unusual difficulties) States to implement electronic benefit transfer systems. (Sec. 1035) Eliminates the minimum allotment annual adjustment provision. (Sec. 1037) Authorizes an optional combined allotment for expedited households. (Sec. 1038) Prohibits allotment increases based upon household income reductions resulting from means-tested public assistance program penalties. (Sec. 1039) Authorizes benefits for households residing in drug or alcohol treatment centers. (Sec. 1046) Authorizes program information to be shared with law enforcement agencies under specified circumstances. (Sec. 1047) Revises expedited coupon service provisions. (Sec. 1048) Authorizes a family to withdraw a fair hearing request. (Sec. 1049) Permits States to use income, eligibility, and immigration status verification systems other than a specified method under the Social Security Act. (Sec. 1059) Extends pilot program authority. Subtitle B: Commodity Distribution Programs - Amends the Agriculture and Consumer Protection Act of 1973 to extend the commodity distribution and commodity supplemental food programs, including cheese and nonfat dry milk provisions. (Sec. 1073) Amends the Charitable Assistance and Food Bank Act of 1987 to repeal the food bank demonstration project. (Sec. 1074) Amends the Hunger Prevention Act of 1988 to eliminate provisions regarding: (1) soup kitchens and other emergency food aid; (2) food processing and distribution; and (3) food bank demonstration projects. Title VI (sic): Federal Retirement and Related Provisions - Subtitle A: Civil Service and Postal Service Provisions - Amends the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1993 to extend the delay in cost-of-living adjustments in Federal employee retirement benefits through FY 2002. (Sec. 6002) Revises Federal civil service law with respect to the Civil Service (CSRS) and Federal Employees (FERS) Retirement Systems regarding deductions, contributions, and deposits, increasing agency contributions under CSRS during calendar years 1996 through 2002, and providing for a phased-in increase under both systems of the amounts of individual deductions, deposits, and withholdings until 2003 when, in certain cases, the percentage of basic pay subject to such withholding reverts back to the current 1995 rate. (Sec. 6003) Makes additional retirement-related changes under both systems with regard to Members of Congress and congressional employees and their years of service for purposes of computing an annuity. (Sec. 6004) Provides under CSRS for treatment similar to that of congressional service with respect to accrual rates relating to certain Federal judges and other judicial personnel. (Sec. 6005) Amends Federal postal law to repeal the authorization of transitional appropriations for the U.S. Postal Service and make certain other changes to provide that liabilities formerly paid pursuant to such repealed authorization remain payable by the Postal Service. (Sec. 13103) (sic) Requires each Federal executive agency, the receipts and disbursements of which are not generally included in the totals of the Federal budget submitted by the President, to prepay the Government contributions which are or will be required in connection with providing health-benefits coverage for annuitants of such agency. Title VII: Veterans and Related Provisions - Veterans Reconciliation Act of 1995 - Subtitle A: Extension of Temporary Authorities - Extends through FY 2002: (1) the requirement that non-service disabled veterans having incomes above a specified level make copayments in exchange for hospital and medical care received through the Department of Veterans Affairs (Department, for purposes of this title); (2) the authority for collection of a $2 copayment from veterans earning above a minimum income level for prescription medication furnished for outpatient treatment of a nonservice-connected condition; (3) certain Department authority for veterans' medical care cost recovery; (4) the authority under Federal veterans' benefits provisions and the Internal Revenue Code to verify a veteran's income for purposes of eligibility for needs-based benefits; (5) a pension payment limitation of $90 monthly to Medicaid-eligible veterans and surviving spouses who have no dependents and who are in Medicaid-participating nursing homes; (6) the authority of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to charge and collect a home loan fee for housing loans guaranteed by the Department; (7) the procedures applicable upon the default of such guaranteed loans; and (8) the authority of the Secretary to issue and guarantee the timely payment of certificates evidencing an interest in a pool of mortgage loans made in connection with the sale of defaulted properties. Subtitle B: Other Matters - Directs the Secretary, as of December 1, 1995, to round down to the next lower whole dollar any cost-of-living adjustments in veterans' disability compensation and dependency and indemnity compensation rates. Prohibits any such rates from being increased during FY 1997 through 2002 by a percentage which is more than the percentage increase for benefits under title II (Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) of the Social Security Act. (Sec. 10023) (sic) Revises the Government's liability standard for injuries or death resulting from Department treatment to allow compensation to be awarded for the additional disability in the same manner as if the disability or death were service-connected. Provides proximate cause requirements. Makes such revision effective for claims received by the Secretary on or after October 1, 1995. (Sec. 10024) Prohibits the withholding of any payments normally made to a veteran or their survivor because of any liability to the Secretary arising out of any loan made to, or insured or guaranteed on account of, such veteran unless the Secretary provides written notice through certified mail of the authority to waive the payment of the indebtedness. Outlines procedures to be followed when the Secretary does not waive the entire amount of such indebtedness. Subtitle C: Educational Benefits - Provides that the cost-of-living adjustments in the rates of veterans' educational assistance payments through FY 2002 shall be 50 percent of the amount by which such payments would have been increased otherwise. Title VIII: Asset Sales; User Fees and Other Mandatory Programs - Subtitle A: United States Enrichment Corporation - USEC Privatization Act - Directs the Board of Directors of the United States Enrichment Corporation (USEC) to transfer USEC ownership to a private corporation established under this Act. Mandates the inclusion of sale proceeds in the budget baseline required by the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act), and its inclusion as an offset to direct spending. (Sec. 3005) (sic) Requires USEC directors to establish a private for-profit corporation under the laws of a State for the purpose of receiving the assets and obligations of USEC at privatization and continuing USEC business operations following privatization. (Sec. 3007) Directs USEC to transfer the lease of gaseous diffusion plants and related property at Paducah, Kentucky, and Piketon, Ohio, to the private corporation concurrent with such privatization. Prohibits the Secretary of Energy (the Secretary) from leasing to the private corporation facilities necessary for the production of highly enriched uranium. (Sec. 3008) Prescribes procedural guidelines for: (1) transfer of contracts to the private corporation, including the right to purchase power from the Secretary under previous power purchase contracts for the gaseous diffusion plants; (2) retention by the United States of pre-privatization liabilities; (3) pension, post-retirement health benefit, and collective bargaining agreement protections for contractor employees at the two gaseous diffusion plants; and (4) retention of Federal retirement and health benefits by former Federal employees. (Sec. 3011) Prohibits USEC directors, officers, or employees from acquiring any securities (or rights to acquire any securities) of the private corporation on terms more favorable than those offered to the general public in specified circumstances. (Sec. 3012) Requires the U.S. Executive Agent under the Russian HEU Agreement to transfer to the Secretary without charge title to an amount of uranium hexafluoride (based on a tails assay of 0.30 U235) equivalent to the natural uranium component of low-enriched uranium derived from at least 18 metric tons of highly enriched uranium purchased from the Russian Executive Agent under such Agreement. Deems such uranium hexafluoride to be of Russian origin. Requires the Secretary to sell, and receive payment for, the transferred uranium hexafluoride for: (1) overfeeding in the operations of enrichment facilities in the United States; (2) end use outside the United States; or (3) consumption by end users in the United States during calendar year 2001, according to a specified schedule beginning in 1998. Requires the U.S. Executive Agent, upon request of the Russian Executive Agent, to deliver concurrently to such Agent, an amount of uranium hexafluoride equivalent to the natural uranium component of such low-enriched uranium. Provides for auction of such uranium hexafluoride, or U308 (in the event that the conversion component of such hexafluoride has previously been sold), if the Russian Executive Agent does not exercise its right to agree to take delivery of the natural uranium component of any low-enriched uranium within 90 days after delivery of such low-enriched uranium to the U.S. Executive Agent. Grants the Secretary of Commerce responsibility for administration and enforcement of the limitations set forth in this section. Exempts from certain provisions of the Tariff Act of 1930 highly enriched uranium and low-enriched uranium derived from highly enriched uranium (including the natural uranium component and any uranium products delivered pursuant to enrichment contracts affected by such imports), if the President determines that a waiver with respect to the importation of such uranium, which is derived from highly enriched uranium extracted from nuclear weapons dismantled in the Russian Federation and purchased from the Russian Federation under a government-to-government agreement, is in the U.S. national security interest. Requires the Secretary of Energy to transfer to USEC without charge up to 50 metric tons of enriched uranium and up to 7,000 metric tons of natural uranium from the Department of Energy (DOE) stockpile. Prohibits USEC from delivering for commercial end use in the United States: (1) any of such uranium before January 1, 1998; (2) more than ten percent of such uranium or more than 4 million pounds, whichever is less, in any calendar year after 1997; or (3) more than 800,000 separative work units contained in low-enriched uranium transferred in any calendar year. Authorizes the Secretary to sell, from time to time, natural and low-enriched uranium from the DOE stockpile, subject to specified conditions. Permits DOE transfer or sale of enriched uranium to: (1) Federal agencies; (2) any person for national security purposes; or (3) any State or local agency or non-profit, charitable, or educational institution for use other than the commercial generation of electricity. (Sec. 3013) Prescribes guidelines under which the Secretary shall accept low-level radioactive waste (including depleted uranium if ultimately determined to be such waste) for disposal at the request and expense (by reimbursement) of the generator. (Sec. 3014) Grants USEC exclusive commercial rights to deploy and use any federally owned or controlled Atomic Vapor Laser Isotope Separation (AVLIS) patents, processes and technical information, upon completion of a royalty agreement with the Secretary. Instructs the President to transfer related AVLIS property (except those related to the gaseous diffusion, gas centrifuge, and uranium enrichment programs) to USEC upon its request. (Sec. 3017) Amends the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 to: (1) repeal the mandate and authority of USEC as of the privatization date; and (2) exclude from the definition of "production facility" the construction and operation of a uranium enrichment facility using AVLIS technology, and make such a facility eligible for one-step licensing. Prohibits issuance of any license or certificate of compliance to USEC or its successor if its issuance would, in the opinion of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), be inimical to: (1) the common defense and security of the United State; or (2) maintenance of a reliable and economical domestic source of enrichment services because of the nature and extent of USEC ownership, control or domination by a foreign corporation or government or any other relevant factors or circumstances. Provides for periodic application of USEC for NRC certification at least once every five years (instead of annually). Revises the purview of judicial review of NRC actions to include: (1) any final order establishing standards to govern DOE gaseous diffusion uranium enrichment facilities, including facilities leased to a corporation established under this Act; and (2) any final determination relating to whether such facilities comply with such standards. Provides for civil money penalties for violations of licensing or certification requirements. Subtitle B: Naval Petroleum Reserves Privatization - Naval Petroleum Reserves Privatization Act - Sets a deadline for the Secretary of Energy (the Secretary) to prepare, and submit for the President's approval, a plan for selling Naval Petroleum Reserve Numbered 1 (NPR 1), and for selling or leasing the remaining Reserves out of Federal ownership in FY 2002. Directs the President to approve the plan with or without modifications by a specified date. (Sec. 4121) Delineates guidelines within which: (1) the Secretary shall finalize equity interests of the known oil and gas zones in NPR 1; and (2) the Secretary of the Treasury shall pay to the State of California (to be credited by the State to the Supplemental Benefits Maintenance Account within the Teachers' Retirement Fund) seven percent of proceeds from the NPR 1 sale. Instructs the Secretary to exercise certain termination procedures so that specified contracts with Bechtel Petroleum Operations, Inc., and Chevron U.S.A, respectively, terminate not later than the closing date of the sale of such Reserve. Authorizes the Secretary to transfer to the purchaser of NPR 1 the incidental take permit regarding the reserve issued to the Secretary by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. (Sec. 4122) States that if the President so designates, the net proceeds from privatizing the Reserves shall be included in the budget baseline required by the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 (Gramm-Rudman-Hollings), and counted as an offset to direct spending. (Sec. 4123) Reduces, upon sale of NPR 1, certain discretionary spending limits set forth in the Congressional Budget Act of 1974. (Sec. 4131) Transfers to the Secretary of the Interior the functions vested in the Secretary of Energy with regard to Oil Shale Reserve Numbered 2 (located in Utah). (Sec. 4132) Instructs the Secretary of the Interior to study and report to the President on the appropriateness of including the Green River area within the national wild and scenic rivers system. (Sec. 4133) States that nothing in this subtitle affects any interest in, or right or obligation respecting, the Uintah and Ouray Indian Reservation. (Sec. 4151) Amends Federal law governing Naval Petroleum Reserves to revise jurisdictional, administrative, and product disposition guidelines in order to reflect the privatization of such Reserves under this Act. Repeals the requirement for the Secretary to obtain the President's approval before: (1) executing land purchases and condemnation proceedings; (2) entering into agreements with private interests; (3) changing the rate of prospecting and development. Eliminates the statutory guidelines governing the Secretary's authority to contract with private interests for exploration, prospecting and development of NPR 1. Restricts the amount of funds collected under the Emergency Petroleum Allocation Act of 1973 that may be used to enhance production from the Reserves for FY 1996. Authorizes the Secretary to mine and remove oil shale or oil shale products from Oil Shale Reserves for national defense or research. (Sec. 5221) Instructs the Secretary of Energy (the Secretary) to: (1) conduct an asset management and disposition program that will result in specified receipts and savings by the end of FY 2000; and (2) draw down and sell 32 million barrels of oil contained in the Weeks Island (Louisiana) Strategic Petroleum Reserve Facility. (Sec. 5223) Amends the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to authorize the Secretary to store petroleum product owned by a foreign government in underutilized Strategic Petroleum Reserve facilities. Permits exportation of such product without license. Subtitle C: Natural Resources - Helium Act of 1995 - Amends the Helium Act to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to: (1) enter into agreements with private parties for the recovery and disposal of helium on Federal lands; (2) grant leasehold rights to such helium; (3) store, transport, and sell crude helium; and (4) maintain and operate existing crude helium storage facilities at the Bureau of Mines Cliffside Field. (Sec. 5313) Directs the Secretary to: (1) cease producing, refining, and marketing refined helium; and (2) dispose of all facilities, equipment, and Federal property interests relating to refined helium activities. Requires the Secretary to impose fees for helium storage, withdrawal, or transportation services. (Sec. 5314) Prescribes guidelines for: (1) the purchase of helium by Federal agencies from certain private persons; and (2) the sale of crude helium by the Secretary. Requires the Secretary to make crude helium sales in amounts necessary to carry out this Act with minimum market disruption. Mandates that proceeds from helium sales be paid to the Treasury. (Sec. 5315) Instructs the Secretary to eliminate helium stockpiles by a certain deadline. Repeals the Secretary's authority to borrow under the Helium Act. (Sec. 5317) Directs the Secretary of the Interior to convey to the Texas Plains Girl Scout Council for consideration of one dollar specified lands in Potter County, Texas, reserving easements to the United States for pipeline rights-of-way. (Sec. 5421) Outer Continental Shelf Deep Water Royalty Relief Act - Amends the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to reduce or eliminate any royalty or net profit share set forth in existing leases for oil or gas resources in certain areas of deep water on the Outer Continental Shelf in the Gulf of Mexico. (Sec. 5422) Declares that, with specified exceptions, no royalty payments shall be due on new production from any lease or unit located in specified water depths in the Western and Central Planning Areas of the Gulf until certain volumes of oil equivalent are produced. (Sec. 5423) Provides for new leases and lease sales on the basis of a cash bonus bid meeting certain criteria. (Sec. 5424) Suspends royalties for a seven-year period for new leases in specified water depths in the Gulf. Subjects sales of such leases to such cash bonus bidding system. Subtitle C (sic): GSA Property Sales - Instructs the Administrator of General Services (the Administrator) to sell: (1) all Federal interests in and to Governors Island, New York, granting rights of first refusal to the State and the City of New York, respectively; and (2) the air rights adjacent to the Washington Union Station. (Sec.6022) Directs Amtrak to convey specified air rights to the Administrator as a condition of future Federal financial assistance. Prohibits Amtrak from obligating Federal funds for failure to comply. Title V: Energy and Natural Resources Provisions - Subtitle A: Nuclear Regulatory Commission Annual Charges - Amends the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1990 to extend from September 30, 1998, to September 30, 2002, the authority of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to assess and collect annual user fees and charges. Subtitle B: Department of Energy Assets - Amends specified Federal law to increase the annual charge to San Francisco and other municipalities or water districts granted water rights-of-way from the Hetch Hetchy Dam. Makes annual operation of Yosemite National Park (currently, the building and maintenance of roads and trails in Yosemite and other California national parks) the highest priority use of the proceeds from such charges, with the remainder of any funds to be used for operations of the other California national parks. (Sec. 5402) Prescribes guidelines under which the Administrator of the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) shall refinance a certain appropriated debt by determining with the approval of the Secretary of the Treasury: (1) a new principal amount for such debt; (2) a new interest rate for such debt based on the Treasury rate for the old capital investment; and (3) a $100 million limit on prepayments of old capital investments before a certain date. (Sec. 5406) Prescribes guidelines for interest rates for new capital investments. (Sec. 5408) Amends the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation Grand Coulee Dam Settlement Act to credit specified amounts to the Administrator in certain fiscal years so long as the Administrator makes annual payments to the Tribes under a certain settlement agreement. (Sec. 5409) Directs the Administrator to offer to include provisions in future electric power service contracts that preclude further increases in the principal amount or interest rate obligations to the Government. (Sec. 5411) Alaska Power Administration Asset Sale and Termination Act - Sets forth definitions. (No further text provided in bill.) (Sec. 5451) Amends the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act of 1965 (the Act) to revise admission guidelines, and increase special recreation use fees for the National Park System (NPS), and National Recreation Areas, respectively. Restricts lifetime admission permits to U.S. citizens, or persons permanently domiciled in the United States, who are permanently disabled (currently, blind or permanently disabled). Repeals the proscription against admission fees for the following NPS units: (1) U.S.S. Arizona Memorial; (2) Independence National Historical Park; (3) District of Columbia NPS units; (4) Arlington House-Robert E. Lee National Memorial; (5) San Juan National Historic Site; and (6) Canaveral National Seashore. Repeals the limitation imposed upon single-visit permit fees for the Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and Grand Canyon National Parks. Revises guidelines governing recreation use fees. Removes the maximum statutory fine for violations. Revises guidelines governing covering of fees collected into a special NPS account. Revises commercial tour use fee guidelines to instruct the Secretary of the Interior to establish a commercial tour use fee in lieu of a per person admission fee imposed on each commercial tour vehicle. (Sec. 5452) Covers increased fees into special accounts for FY 1997 through 2005, specifying four percent annual increases thereafter. (Sec. 5453) Provides for allocation and use of receipts in each agency's special account. Subtitle F: National Defense Stockpile - Requires the President to dispose of all cobalt and specified materials listed in a certain National Defense Stockpile disposal schedule. (Sec. 9002) Amends the Act of August 5, 1909 to extend higher vessel tonnage duties through FY 2002. (Sec. 9003) Authorizes the Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to assess and collect fees applicable to persons subject to radiological emergency preparedness regulations. (Sec. 6011 (sic)) Amends the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1990 to extend Patent and Trademark Office surcharges through FY 2002. (Sec. 11161) (sic) Amends the Internal Revenue Code to extend through FY 2002 the mandatory disclosure of return information to governmental agencies administering certain veterans programs. Subtitle F (sic): Taxpayer Bill of Rights 2 Provisions - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to limit the Secretary of the Treasury's authority to abate interest attributable to error by Internal Revenue Service (IRS) personnel to unreasonable error only. (Sec. 6105) Amends Federal civil service law to redefine Federal service in the armed forces or the commissioned corps of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration with respect to the denial of unemployment insurance to individuals who voluntarily leave military service. Title IX: Limitations on Corporate Welfare and Other Revenue Provisions - Subtitle A: Expatriation - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide that if a U.S. citizen relinquishes citizenship, all property held by such citizen at the time immediately before relinquishment shall be treated as sold at such time for its fair market value and any gain or loss shall be subject to U.S. income tax. (Sec. 101) (sic) Permits an expatriate to elect to continue to be taxed as a United States citizen, in which case the provisions applicable to other expatriates will not apply. Excludes $600,000 in gain from taxation, except for allocable gain from interest in a beneficiary's qualified trust. Allows an expatriate to elect to have property made subject to tax in the same manner as if the individual were a U.S. citizen if the individual: (1) provides security for payment of tax; (2) consents to waiver of treaty rights that would preclude tax assessment or collection; and (3) complies with other requirements prescribed by the Secretary of the Treasury. Conditions that the election shall apply to all of the expatriate's property and shall be irrevocable. Directs that if an election is made to defer tax: (1) no amount shall be required to be includible in gross income; and (2) the expatriate's tax for the taxable year in which such property is disposed of, shall be increased by the deferred tax amount, regardless of whether gain or loss is recognized in whole or in part. States that these provisions apply to: (1) any interest in property held on the expatriation date the gain from which would be includible in gross income if sold for fair market value on such date; and (2) any other interest to which special rules applicable to beneficiaries' interests in trust apply. Excepts certain interests in U.S. real property interests and retirement plans. Prescribes such special rules applicable to beneficiaries' interests in trust. Terminates, on the date on which property held by an individual is treated as sold under this Act, any deferral of recognition of income or gain and any extension of time for payment of tax. Imposes a tentative tax, immediately before the expatriation date, on income required to be included equal to the amount that would be imposed if the taxable year were a short taxable year ending on the expatriation date. Disallows the exclusion from gross income of the value of any property acquired as a gift, bequest, devise, or inheritance received from a covered expatriate after the expatriation date. (Sec. 102) Requires the filing of certain information by expatriates. Subtitle B: Corporate Reforms - Provides, with respect to a corporate shareholder's basis in stock reduced by the nontaxed portion of extraordinary dividends, that if the nontaxed portion of such dividend exceeds such basis, such excess shall be treated as gain from the sale or exchange of such stock for the taxable year in which the extraordinary dividend is received. (Sec. 202) Requires the organizer of a corporate tax shelter to register the shelter. Sets forth penalties for failure to file. (Sec. 203) Prohibits a deduction for interest paid on life insurance policies or annuities which cover a company officer or employee. (Sec. 205) Revises the Puerto Rico and possession tax credit for years beginning after December 31, 1995. Provides for a five-year phasedown with respect to such credit. (Sec. 206) Directs that personal property used predominately within the U.S. exchanged and held for productive use or investment not be treated like personal property used predominately outside the U.S. (Sec. 207) Repeals the transition rule for a financial corporation with respect to rules allocating interest to foreign source income. (Sec. 208) Treats the conversion of a large corporations into an S corporation as a complete liquidation. (Sec. 209) Modifies the number of taxable years to which the net operating loss deduction may be carried. (Sec. 210) Treats an appreciated financial position as sold for its fair market value on the date of its constructive sale (and any gain for the taxable year which includes such date) if there is a constructive sale of such a position. (Sec. 211) Modifies the rules for allocating interest expense to tax-exempt interest. Makes such rules applicable to corporations (currently, financial institutions). (Sec. 212) Reduces the 70 percent dividends reduction to 50 percent. (Sec. 213) Modifies the holding period applicable to the dividends received deduction. (Sec. 214) Treats certain nonqualified preferred stock as boot (not as stock or securities) for the purposes of property transfers to a corporation controlled by the transferor. (Sec. 215) Disallows the deduction for any interest paid or accrued on certain debt instruments of a corporation. (Sec. 216) Defers the interest deduction on convertible indebtedness of a corporation until the taxable year in which it is paid. Subtitle C: Foreign Provisions - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to revise the requirements regarding information that must be reported regarding certain foreign trusts. (Sec. 302) Modifies the circumstances (with regard to foreign trusts having one or more U.S. beneficiaries) in which a transferor is treated as the owner. (Sec. 303) Replaces provisions setting forth a special rule applicable to foreign grantors with provisions declaring that provisions relating to treating grantors and others as substantial owners shall apply only when that application results in an amount being currently taken into account in computing the income of a U.S. citizen or resident or a domestic corporation. (Sec. 304) Requires a United States person to report information regarding foreign gifts or bequests when the gifts' aggregate value during a taxable year exceeds $10,000. (Sec. 305) Modifies requirements regarding the interest charge on accumulation distributions from foreign trusts. (Sec. 306) Changes the circumstances in which an estate or trust is included in the definition of "United States person." Modifies the definition of "foreign estate" and "foreign trust." Requires (for provisions relating to the imposition of a tax on transfers to avoid income tax) treating a trust which is not a foreign trust and which becomes a foreign trust as having transferred, immediately before becoming a foreign trust, all of its assets to a foreign trust. (Sec. 311) Amends the Internal Revenue Code to modify the definition of "foreign personal holding company income" to include income from a notional principal contract entered into for the purposes of hedging certain transactions and income. (Sec. 312) Disallows the foreign tax credit to any country for foreign oil and gas extraction income and eliminates the deferral for all foreign oil and gas extraction income with respect to foreign base company oil related income. (Sec. 313) Limits the exclusion on foreign earned income of U.S. citizens or residents living abroad for any taxable year at the lowest tax rate. Subtitle D: Accounting Provisions - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to repeal the reserve method of accounting for determining deductions for bad debts by thrift institutions, effective for taxable years beginning after 1995. Repeals, with respect to thrift institutions to which such accounting method applied, provisions relating to: (1) the denial of a portion of certain tax credits to a thrift institution; (2) special rules regarding the foreclosure of property securing loans of a thrift institution; (3) the reduction in the dividends received deduction of a thrift institution; and (4) the ability of a thrift institution to use a net operating loss to offset its income from a residential interest in a real estate mortgage investment conduit. Provides rules to implement the change in the method of accounting required by the repeal. (Sec. 401) Defines applicable excess reserves. Sets forth provisions for thrifts which become small banks. Provides for the suspension of recapture if the taxpayer meets the residential loan requirement. Defines the term residential loan requirement. Allows in cases where the taxpayer is not a large bank, for the purposes of determining the net amounts of adjustments, that only the excess of the reserve for bad debts as of the close of the last taxable year before the disqualification year over the balance of reserves shall be taken into account. Provides for the treatment of reserves for bad debts under the elective cut-off method. Prohibits the inclusion of a portion of reserve in gross income under the elective cut-off method. Provides for continued application of provisions respecting distributions to stockholders, but the amount of the reserve accounted for by the taxpayer shall be the balance of the amount of the applicable excess reserves. Provides for the treatment of the balance of the applicable excess reserves and the balance of reserves accounted for by a taxpayer as carryovers in certain corporate acquisitions. (Sec. 402) Revises provisions concerning the income forecast method of determining depreciation deductions. (Sec. 403) Repeals the lower-of-cost-or-market method of accounting for inventories. Subtitle E: Administrative Provisions - Repeals the credit for purchasers of diesel-powered automobiles and light trucks. (Sec. 502) Increases the amount of penalty for any failure to file information returns if less than 97 percent of the aggregate amount of items are reported correctly. Subtitle F: Casualty and Involuntary Conversion Provisions - Revises provisions concerning the involuntary conversion of property into either similar property or money. Subtitle G: Excise Tax on Amounts of Private Excess Benefits - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to impose a 25 percent tax (which shall be paid by the disqualified person) on any transaction from which an economic benefit is provided by a tax-exempt organization directly or indirectly to a disqualified person, if the value of the benefit provided exceeds the value of the consideration. Sets forth additional reporting requirements for 501(c)(3) organizations. Requires any solicitation of an organization that refers to itself as nonprofit, when it is not exempt from tax, to contain an express statement that it is not exempt from tax. Imposes a penalty for failure to disclose. Subtitle H: Extension of Certain Taxes - Extends: (1) the environmental tax until January 1, 1997; (2) the Hazardous Superfund Financing rate until October 1, 1996; (3) the Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund financing rate until October 1, 2002; and (4) the Federal unemployment tax at the present rates through 2002 and 2003, respectively. Subtitle I: Provisions Relating to Individuals - Prohibits the nonrecognition of gain on the sale of a principal residence which is attributable to depreciation adjustments. (Sec. 852) Requires withholding from winnings of more than $5,000 from bingo or keno. (Sec. 853) Repeals the provision which provides for the exclusion from income of rent from the rental of a vacation home for less than 15 days. Subtitle J: Reform of the Earned Income Credit - Denies the earned income credit to individuals not authorized to be employed in the U.S. (Sec. 902) Modifies the definition of "disqualified income" to include capital gain net income for purposes of the denial of the earned income credit for individuals having excessive income. Title IX: Middle Class Bill of Rights - Middle Class Bill of Rights Tax Relief Act of 1996 - Subtitle A: Middle Class Tax Relief - Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow individuals a tax credit of $300 per eligible child under the age of 13 years. Increases such credit to $500 per eligible child after December 31, 1998. Reduces such credit for incomes of $60,000 or more. Provides an inflation adjustment for such amounts beginning in 1999. (Sec. 2) (sic) Allows individuals a tax deduction for the qualified higher education expenses of the taxpayer and the taxpayer's spouse and dependents. Limits such deduction to $10,000 ($5,000 for years 1996, 1997, and 1998). Reduces such limitation for modified adjusted gross incomes of $70,000 or more ($100,000 for a joint return). Allows such deduction in computing adjusted gross income. Subtitle B: Provisions Relating to Individual Retirement Plans - Increases the income limitations on retirement savings deductions and provides a cost-of-living adjustment after 1994 for such limitations. (Sec. 12) Provides a cost-of-living adjustment for deductible retirement amounts after 1995. (Sec. 13) Coordinates the limit on such deduction with the elective deferral limit under other pension provisions. (Sec. 21) Establishes special individual retirement accounts that are nondeductible. Makes such accounts nontaxable if earnings on contributions are held for at least five years. Applies the early withdrawal penalty to distributions made before the end of the five-year period. (Sec. 21) (sic) Allows distributions from certain retirement plans without penalty to purchase first homes, pay higher education expenses and financially devastating medical expenses (including qualified long-term care services), and assist certain unemployed individuals. (Sec. 22) Requires contributions to such plans to be held for at least five years prior to such distributions. Subtitle C: Increase in Deduction for Health Care Costs of Self-Employed Individuals - Increases the deduction for health insurance costs of self-employed individuals by specified applicable percentages for taxable years beginning in 1996. Title X (sic): Budget Enforcement - Specifies discretionary spending limits for new budget authority and outlays for FY 1996 through 2002. Limits the amount of funding available for the Internal Revenue Service compliance initiative in any fiscal year not to exceed $405 billion each for additional new budget authority and in outlays. (Sec. 10003) (sic) Continues the enforcement of the pay-as-you-go provisions. (Sec. 10004) Defines the term "fiscal dividend " to mean the amount by which the deficit target exceeds the actual deficit. Provides for the use of the fiscal dividend in the congressional budget process for the current fiscal year.
Bill· SS. 1526 (104th)open
United States · United States Congress · 25 January 1996
Electricity Competition Act of 1996 - Declares that: (1) the regulatory authority of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) under the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 with respect to cogeneration and small power production shall not apply to any facility which begins commercial operation after the effective date of this Act, except a facility for which a power purchase contract entered into under such authority was in effect on such date); and (2) no electric utility shall be required to enter into a new contract or obligation to purchase from or sell electric energy to qualifying cogeneration and small power facilities. (Sec. 4) Mandates that each State regulatory authority initiate proceedings regarding its regulated retail electric utilities to examine and consider: (1) requirements which establish competitive electricity procurement markets that meet specified statutory requirements; (2) a retail access plan which requires all State regulated retail electric utilities to provide nondiscriminatory and unbundled local distribution services to all their electric consumers so that they may choose among competing electric energy suppliers by a certain deadline; and (3) an alternative plan which meets certain statutory requirements. Sets a deadline by which State regulatory bodies must select and begin implementation of competitive electric options. Requires each nonregulated retail electric utility to examine and consider: (1) procedures for the acquisition of new contract electricity and new generating sources that meet specified statutory requirements; (2) a retail access plan which provides nondiscriminatory and unbundled local distribution services to all their electric consumers so that such consumers may choose among competing electric energy suppliers by a certain deadline; and (3) an alternative plan which meets certain statutory requirements. Sets a deadline by which such utilities must select and begin implementation of competitive electric options. (Sec. 5) Permits the procedures established by a State regulatory authority or nonregulated retail electric utility pursuant to this Act to apply to all or part of the new contract electricity and new generating sources to be procured. Sets forth minimum requirements for such new procedures. (Sec. 6) Mandates that the alternative plans adopted pursuant to this Act ensure: (1) that any State regulated retail electric utility within the State may not unduly discriminate in favor of its own or an affiliate's sources of generation supply, or engage in other forms of self-dealing; and (2) that any above market costs of new renewable electric generation are allocated on a non-discriminatory basis to all electric consumers of regulated retail electric utilities within the State, so that no consumer (or class of consumers) is required, without express consent, to subsidize the costs of such new renewable electric generation to the advantage of other consumers. (Sec. 7) Exempts from the requirements of this Act State regulatory authorities and nonregulated retail electric utilities that have adopted analogous procedures. (Sec. 8) Declares that beginning on January 1, 2010, no retail electric utility shall prohibit any electric consumer from purchasing nondiscriminatory and unbundled local distribution service, or otherwise prohibit consumers from choosing among competing electric energy suppliers. Sets forth review and enforcement mechanisms. (Sec. 11) Amends the Federal Power Act to authorize FERC to order, or condition orders upon, the transmission of electric energy to an ultimate consumer if delivery would be accomplished through the provision of unbundled local distribution services under this Act. Declares that a State regulatory authority is not precluded from requiring an electric utility to provide local distribution service to a consumer. Directs FERC to provide for the recovery of all stranded costs incurred by any utility transmitting or distributing electric energy not sold by it or its affiliates, including customer service costs not fully recovered at the time of distribution or transmission. Directs FERC to permit the recovery of all stranded costs to the extent a State or State regulatory authority requiring the provision of unbundled local distribution service has not permitted the recovery of all such costs in rates or lacks authority under State law to permit such recovery. Authorizes FERC to determine rates for the provision of unbundled local distribution service by a utility solely as necessary to permit recovery of stranded costs. Prohibits any retail electric utility (or affiliate) from selling electric energy to or for the benefit of the ultimate consumer if its delivery will be accomplished through the provision of unbundled local distribution service by another utility, unless such retail electric utility is itself providing unbundled local distribution service under this Act. (Sec. 12) Mandates that FERC and State regulatory authorities authorize and ensure the recovery of all costs associated with Federal and State requirements for the decommissioning of nuclear generating units. (Sec. 13) Amends the Bankruptcy Reform Act of 1978 to recognize as a creditor's administrative expense any costs incurred in complying with Nuclear Regulatory Commission regulations governing decontamination and decommissioning of licensed nuclear power reactors (regardless of whether such costs are reduced to a fixed amount).
Bill· HRH.R. 2899 (104th)open
United States · United States Congress · 25 January 1996
National Center for Excellence in Research and Development Act of 1996 - Authorizes appropriations to the Secretary of Energy for FY 1995 and beyond to maintain the operational readiness of the underground nuclear testing facilities and infrastructure of the Nevada Test Site. Establishes within the Department of Energy a national Test and Demonstration Center of Excellence at the Nevada Test Site, Nevada, to implement testing and demonstration activities related to: (1) certain alternative and renewable energy sources, including solar and geothermal energy, as well as natural gas, electricity, and hydrogen as components of a National Alternative-Fueled Vehicles Program; (2) certain changes in the U.S. military as a result of the end of the Cold War, including demilitarization and disarmament activities and the nonmilitary application of military technologies and resources; (3) stewardship of the Federal nuclear stockpile; (4) non-proliferation and counter-proliferation of nuclear weapons; and (5) development of certain environmental technologies, including technologies for remediation of toxic and hazardous chemicals, and activities pertaining to emergency response to hazardous and toxic accidents.
Law· HRH.R. 2880 (104th)enacted
United States · United States Congress · 25 January 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Unnamed Title II: Departments of Commerce, Justice, and State, the Judiciary, and Related Agencies Appropriations Title III: Foreign Operations, Export Financing, and Related Programs Appropriations Title IV: Housing and Urban Development Balanced Budget Downpayment Act, I - Title I: - Makes appropriations for FY 1996 to carry out, at rates not to exceed the current operating rate, the following: (1) the Department of the Interior and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1996; and (2) the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1996. (Sec. 106) Makes appropriations available until the earlier of: (1) enactment of an appropriation for any project or activity provided for in this Act; (2) enactment of the applicable appropriations Act without any provision for such project or activity; or (3) March 15, 1996. (Sec. 111) Provides that, except for section 106 provisions, whenever one of the above listed Acts as passed does not include funding for an ongoing project or activity such project or activity may be continued at a rate that is reduced from the current level by 25 percent. (Sec. 112) Provides that, notwithstanding other provisions of this Act, except section 106, whenever the rate of operations for any continuing project or activity for which there is a budget request would result in a furlough of Government employees such rate may be increased to minimum level that would enable the furlough to be avoided. (Sec. 115) Provides that, except for section 106, the rate for operations of the following projects or activities shall be only the minimum necessary to accomplish orderly termination: (1) Child Development Associates Scholarships in the Department of health and Human Services; (2) Dependent Care Planning and Development in the Department of Health and Human Services; (3) Law Related Education in the Department of Education; (4) Dropout Prevention Demonstrations in the Department of Education; (5) Aid for Institutional development- Endowment grants in the Department of Education; (6) Aid for Institutional Development-Evaluation in the Department of Education; (7) Native Hawaiian and Alaska Native Cultural Arts; (8) Innovative Projects in Community Service in the Department of Education; (9) Cooperative Education in the Department of Education; and (10) Douglas Teacher Scholarships in the Department of Education. (Sec. 116) Requires any Federal employees furloughed as a result of any lapse in appropriations after midnight November 13, 1995, until enactment of this Act to be compensated at their standard rate of compensation during the lapse. (Sec. 117) Provides that, except for section 106, upon enactment of this Act any new grants or contracts for the following programs shall be made at a level not to exceed a rate of 75 percent of prior monthly awards: (1) in the Department of Health and Human Services: (a) Health Resources and Services Administration; Health Resources and Services: Trauma Care and Health Care Facilities; (b) Assistant Secretary for Health; Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health: National Vaccine Program, Health Care Reform Data Analysis, and National AIDS Program Office; (c) Health Care Financing Administration; Program Management: Essential Access Community Hospitals; (d) Administration for Children and Families; Children and Families Services Program: Youth Gang Substance Abuse, Advisory Board on Child Abuse and Neglect, Child Welfare Research, Homeless Service Grants, and Community Schools (crime trust fund); (e) Administration on Aging; Aging Services Program: Pension Counseling, Federal Council on Aging, and White House Conference on Aging; (2) in the Department of Education: (a) Education for the Disadvantaged: State School Improvement; (b) School Improvement Programs; Safe and Drug Free Schools and Communities: National Program Women's Educational Equity; (c) Bilingual and Immigrant Education: Bilingual Education Support Services; (d) Higher Education: Faculty Development Fellowships and School, College, and University Partnerships; and (3) in Related Agencies: (a) Corporation for National and Community Service; Domestic Volunteer Service Programs, Operating Expenses: Senior Demonstration Program; and (b) National Education Standards and Improvement Council. (Sec. 118) Places specified limits on cabinet level travel. (Sec. 119) Limits a Pell Grant during 1996-1997 to a maximum of $2,440. (Sec. 121) Provides for the sale of the property located at 501 First Street, Southeast, District of Columbia. (Sec. 122) Appropriates sums necessary for all projects and activities funded under the account heading "Office for Civil Rights" under the Office of the Secretary in the Department of Health and Human Services at a specified rate. (Sec. 123) Funds activities necessary to effect the following program eliminations and transfers of selected functions at a rate of operations provided for in the conference report on the Department of the Interior and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1996: (1) all projects and activities under the account heading "Public Development" under the Pennsylvania Avenue Development Corporation; (2) all projects and activities under the account heading "Mines and Minerals" under the Bureau of Mines in the Department of the Interior; (3) all activities related to the transfer of functions from the Bureau of Mines under the account heading "Management of Lands and Resources" under the Bureau of Land Management in the Department of the Interior; (4) all activities related to the transfers of functions from the Bureau of Mines and from the National Biological Service under the account heading "Surveys, Investigations, and Research" under the U.S. Geological Survey in the Department of the Interior; and (5) all activities related to the transfer of functions from the Bureau of Mines under the account heading "Fossil Energy Research and Development" in the Department of Energy. (Sec. 124) Makes appropriations available for section 123 until the earlier of: (1) enactment of an appropriation for any project or activity provided for in this Act; (2) enactment of the applicable appropriations Act without any provision for such project or activity; or (3) March 15, 1996. (Sec. 125) Provides for the sale of Weeks Island oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. (Sec. 126) Appropriates amounts necessary, under conditions provided for in the applicable FY 1995 appropriations Act to continue at a rate of operations provided for in the conference report on the Department of the Interior and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1996, the following projects or activities, which are conducted in FY 1995, of the Indian Health Services, Indian Health Service Facilities, Bureau of Indian Affairs, National Park Service, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Forest Service. Makes such appropriations available until the earlier of: (1) enactment of an appropriation for any project or activity provided for in this Act; (2) enactment of the applicable appropriations Act without any provision for such project or activity; or (3) March 15, 1996. (Sec. 128) Prohibits any funds made available in PL 104-91 form being used for: (1) the creation of a human embryo or embryos for research purposes; or (2) research in which a human embryo or embryos are destroyed, discarded, or knowingly subjected to risk of injury or death greater than that allowed for research under applicable Federal regulations. (Sec. 131) Appropriates additional funds to repair flood damage to the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historic Park. Title II: Departments of Commerce, Justice, and State, the Judiciary, and Related Agencies Appropriations - Appropriates necessary amounts at a rate of operations provided for in the conference report on the Departments of Commerce, Justice, and State, the Judiciary, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1996, subject to exceptions. Stipulates that, notwithstanding any other provision of this Act, the rate of operations only for program administration and the continuation of grants awarded in FY 1995 and prior years may be increased up to a level of 75 percent of the final FY 1995 appropriated amount for the Advanced Technology Program of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, and the Ounce of Prevention Council, Drug Courts, Global Learning and Observations to Benefit the Environment, and Cops on the Beat Program. Appropriates necessary amounts at a rate of operations provided for in the conference report on the Departments of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 1996, subject to exceptions. Stipulates that, notwithstanding any other provision of this Act, the rate of operations for may be increased up to a level of 75 percent of the FY 1995 level for the Corporation for National and Community Service, the Community Development Financial Institutions Fund, and the Office of Consumer Affairs. (Sec. 202) Makes appropriations under this title available until the earlier of: (1) enactment of an appropriation for any project or activity provided for in this Act; (2) enactment of the applicable appropriations Act without any provision for such project or activity; or (3) March 15, 1996. (Sec. 208) Amends Public Law 104-92 to make FY 1996 appropriations to continue all activities necessary to provide all veterans' benefits. Title III: Foreign Operations, Export Financing, and Related Programs Appropriations - Makes FY 1996 appropriations, at a rate of operations provided for in the conference report, for the programs and activities of the Foreign Operations, Export Financing, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 1996. Inserts in such conference report, in lieu of Senate amendment 115, a provision which prohibits, subject to provisos, funds being made available for population planning activities or other population assistance under specified Federal law, unless such funding is expressly authorized by law. (Sec. 302) Makes appropriations under this title available until the earlier of: (1) enactment of an appropriation for any project or activity provided for in this Act; (2) enactment of the applicable appropriations Act without any provision for such project or activity; or (3) March 15, 1996. Title IV: Housing and Urban Development - Authorizes the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, during FY 1996, to manage and dispose of multifamily properties owned by the Secretary, including the provision for grants from the General insurance Fund for the necessary costs of rehabilitation and other related development costs and multifamily mortgages held by the Secretary. (Sec. 402) Directs public housing agencies to: (1) require each family who is assisted under the certificate or moderate rehabilitation program under section 8 to pay a minimum monthly rent of at least $25, but not more than $50; (2) reduce the monthly assistance payment on behalf of each family assisted under section 8 voucher program so that the family pays a minimum monthly rent of at least $25, but not more than $50; (3) require each assisted family under the public housing program to pay a minimum monthly rent of $25, but not more than $50. Requires, for other section 8 rental assistance programs that each assisted family pay a minimum monthly rent of $25, but not more than $25. Amends the United States Housing Act of 1937 to permit a public housing agency to: (1) adopt ceiling rents that reflect the reasonable market value of the housing, but that are not less than the monthly costs of operating the agency and making a deposit to a monthly reserve; and (2) allow families to pay such ceiling rents unless such rent would exceed the family's rent. Permits a public housing agency to adopt other adjustments to income. Requires a public housing agency to establish a written system of preferences for admission to public housing that is not inconsistent with the comprehensive housing affordability strategy under title I of the Cranston-Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act. Revises tenant selection provisions concerning section 8 and moderate rehabilitation, section 8 voucher program, and section 8 new construction and substantial rehabilitation. (Sec. 403) Directs the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to establish fair market rentals for purposes of section 8(c)(1) of the United States Housing Act of 1937 that shall be based on the 40th percentile rent of rental distributions of standard quality rental units. (Sec. 404) Repeals, retroactive to November 28, 1990, provisions of the Cranston-Gonzalez National Affordable Housing Act that placed a maximum annual limitation on rent increases resulting from employment. (Sec. 405) Directs the Secretary to use amounts available for the renewal of section 8 assistance, upon termination of a contract for such assistance, to provide assistance under such section for the eligible families assisted under contracts at termination. (Sec. 406) Extends for one year the demonstration program of insurance of home equity conversion mortgages for elderly homeowners. (Sec. 407) Permits the Secretary to pay insurance benefits to an FHA single-family mortgagee to recompense the mortgagee for actions to provide an alternative to foreclosure of a mortgage in default. Permits the Secretary to establish a program for the payment of a partial claim to a mortgagee that agrees to apply the claim amount to payment of a mortgage on a one-to-four family residence in default.
Law· HRH.R. 2869 (104th)enacted
United States · United States Congress · 23 January 1996
Requires the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, upon request of a certain licensee, to extend until June 15, 1998, the time required to commence construction of a specified hydroelectric project in Kentucky.
Bill· HRH.R. 2863 (104th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 22 January 1996
TABLE OF CONTENTS: Title I: Export and Investment Assistance Title II: Bilateral Economic Assistance Title III: Military Assistance Title IV: Multilateral Economic Assistance Title V: General Provisions Title VI: Middle East Peace Facilitation Act of 1995 Foreign Operations, Export Financing, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 1996 - Title I: Export and Investment Assistance - Makes appropriations for FY 1996 for: (1) direct loans, loan guarantees, tied-aid grants, insurance, and administrative expenses under Export-Import Bank programs; (2) Overseas Private Investment Corporation direct and guaranteed loans and administrative expenses; and (3) the Trade and Development Agency. Title II: Bilateral Economic Assistance - Makes appropriations for FY 1996 for the U.S. contribution to: (1) the Agency for International Development (AID) for child survival and disease programs, specified development assistance (including for the Inter-American Foundation and development assistance for Sub-Saharan Africa), specified projects aimed at reunification of Cyprus, democracy and humanitarian activities in Burma, private and voluntary cooperative development organizations obtaining less than 20 percent of their funding for international activities from sources other than the U.S. Government, international disaster relief, emergency humanitarian assistance to the former Yugoslavia,debt restructuring, direct loans and loan guarantees for micro and small enterprise development programs, administrative expenses of the worldwide housing guarantees program, the Foreign Service Retirement and Disability Fund, operating expenses of AID and the AID Office of Inspector General, economic support fund (ESF) assistance, the International Fund for Ireland, economic assistance for Eastern Europe and the Baltic States, and assistance for the independent states of the former Soviet Union (including the establishment of a Trans-Caucasus Enterprise fund); (2) the Peace Corps (but with a prohibition on the use of such funds for abortions); (3) international narcotics control; (4) migration and refugee assistance, including refugee resettlement assistance; (5) the Emergency Refugee and Migration Assistance Fund; (6) antiterrorism assistance; and (7) the Nonproliferation and Disarmament Fund. Bars the use of development assistance funds for: (1) abortions or involuntary sterilizations; and (2) U.S. private and voluntary organizations, except those which obtain less than 20 percent of annual funding for international activities from sources other than the U.S. Government. Permits humanitarian assistance to the Government of Azerbaijan, if the President determines that nongovernmental assistance is not adequate to address the suffering of refugees and internally displaced persons. Title III: Military Assistance - Makes appropriations for FY 1996 for: (1) international military education and training, but bars such assistance to Zaire and Guatemala and allows funding to Indonesia only for expanded military education and training; (2) foreign military financing and direct loans; and (3) international peacekeeping operations. Prohibits foreign military financing for: (1) any non-NATO country participating in the Partnership for Peace Program except through the regular notification procedures of the Committees on Appropriations; and (2) Zaire, Sudan, Peru, Liberia, and Guatemala. Prohibits such assistance to Colombia or Bolivia until the Secretary of State certifies that such funds will be used primarily for counternarcotics activities there. Title IV: Multilateral Economic Assistance - Makes appropriations for FY 1996 for the U.S. contribution to the: (1) International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (World Bank); (2) International Development Association; (3) International Financial Corporation; (4)Inter-American Development Bank; (5) Enterprise for the Americas Multilateral Investment Fund; (6) Asian Development Bank; (7) Asian Development Fund; (8) European Bank for Reconstruction and Development; and (8) North American Development Bank. Makes appropriations for FY 1996 for international programs and organizations. Limits certain callable subscriptions. Sets certain restrictions on international organization funding, including prohibiting the use of funds made available to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) for activities in China. Prohibits foreign assistance funds to the Korean Peninsula Energy Development Organization (KEDO) unless the President makes a certain certification to the Committees on Appropriations. Title V: General Provisions - Sets forth limits on the use of appropriations, including no more than: (1) 15 percent of such appropriations shall be obligated during the last month of availability; (2) $126,500 for official residence expenses of AID; (3) $5,000 for entertainment expenses of AID; (4) $95,000 for representation allowances for AID; (5) $2,000 for entertainment and representation allowances for the Inter-American Foundation; or (6) $4,000 for entertainment expenses for the Peace Corps. (Sec. 502) Prohibits the use of funds for: (1) bilateral funding of international financial institutions; (2) the export of nuclear equipment, fuel, or technology; (3) direct assistance or reparations to Cuba, Iraq, Libya, North Korea, Iran, Serbia, Sudan, or Syria; (4) assistance to any country whose elected head of government is deposed by military coup; (5) certain transfers between appropriations accounts without consultation with Congress; (6) assistance to any country in default in excess of a year on payments on a U.S. loan (except for Nicaragua and narcotics-related assistance for Colombia, Bolivia, and Peru); and (7) assistance for certain commodities which are in surplus on world markets and could injure U.S. producers of a similar commodity, with specified exceptions. (Sec. 514) Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to instruct the U.S. Executive Directors of specified international financial institutions to oppose any assistance for the production or extraction of any commodity or mineral for export if it is in surplus on world markets and such assistance will cause substantial injury to U.S. producers of a similar commodity. (Sec. 516) Prohibits the use of international organization funds for the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), Libya, Iran, or certain Communist countries. (Sec. 517) Declares it is U.S. policy that funds allocated to Israel from the ESF shall not be less than the annual debt repayment from Israel to the United States. (Sec. 518) Prohibits the use of development assistance funds for abortions or involuntary sterilizations. (Sec. 519) Requires the President to report to the Committees on Appropriations on annual arms sales proposals covering major weapons under the Arms Export Control Act. (Sec. 520) Prohibits the use of funds for Colombia, Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Haiti, Indonesia, Liberia, Nicaragua, Peru, Russia, Sudan, or Zaire, except through the regular notification procedures of the Committees on Appropriations. (Sec. 522) Makes funds available to AID for family planning, health, child survival, and AIDS research and control in developing countries. (Sec. 523) Bars funding for indirect assistance to Cuba, Iraq, Libya, Iran, Syria, North Korea, or China unless the President certifies that the withholding of such funds is contrary to the national interest. (Sec. 524) Amends the Arms Export Control Act to extend the President's waiver authority with respect to reciprocal leasing through FY 1996. (Sec. 525) Requires the Department of Defense (DOD) to notify the Committees on Appropriations before providing excess DOD articles to certain NATO and major non-NATO countries. (Sec. 527) Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to instruct the U.S. Executive Director of each international financial institution, and the Administrator of the Agency for International Development to instruct the U.S. Executive Director of the International Fund for Agriculture Development, to oppose any bilateral assistance to any country that supports terrorism. (Sec. 528) Authorizes the commercial leasing of defense articles to Israel, Egypt, NATO, and major non-NATO allies if the President determines that there are compelling foreign policy or national security reasons. (Sec. 529) Prohibits the sale of Stinger missiles to any country bordering the Persian Gulf. (Sec. 530) Authorizes nongovernmental organizations which are grantees or contractors of AID to place funds made available to them under this Act in interest bearing accounts in order to enhance their participation in economic activities under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, including endowments and debt-for-development and debt-for- nature exchanges. (Sec. 531B) Amends the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to make funds available for FY 1996 and FY 1997 for defense article stockpiles in the Republic of Korea and Thailand. (Sec. 532) Directs the Administrator of the AID to require foreign countries that receive foreign assistance which results in the generation of local currencies to deposit such currencies in a separate account to be used to finance foreign assistance activities. (Sec. 533) Prohibits payments to any international financial institution while the U.S. Executive Director to the institution is compensated at a rate in excess of that for a specified position under the Executive Schedule. (Sec. 534) Bars assistance to any country that is not in compliance with the United Nations sanctions against Iraq, Serbia, or Montenegro unless the President certifies to the Congress that such assistance: (1) is in the national interest; (2) will directly benefit the needy people in that country; or (3) will be humanitarian assistance for foreign nationals who have fled Iraq and Kuwait. Authorizes the President to prohibit the importation into the United States of any product of a foreign country that has not prohibited the importation of Iraq's, Serbia's, or Montenegro's products into its customs territory and the export of its products to such countries. (Sec. 535) Authorizes the drawdown of defense articles, services, and training to Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos to assist in efforts to locate members of the armed forces and U.S. civilians who remain unaccounted for from the Vietnam War. (Sec. 537) Requires the Committees on Appropriations to be notified of each country that has been approved for cash flow financing for the procurement of defense articles in excess of $100 million. (Sec. 538) Declares that provisions under this or any other Act authorizing appropriations for foreign operations or export financing shall not be construed to prohibit activities authorized by the Peace Corps Act, the Inter-American Foundation Act, or the African Development Foundation Act. Directs an agency to report to the Committees on Appropriations whenever it is conducting or proposing activities in a country for which such assistance is prohibited. (Sec. 539) Prohibits the use of funds to provide: (1) any financial incentive to a business for purposes of inducing it to relocate outside the United States if it will reduce the number of employees in the United States; (2) assistance for developing in a foreign country an export processing zone or other designated area in which a country's tax, tariff, labor, environment, and safety laws do not apply to activities in the area, unless the President certifies that such assistance is not likely to cause a loss of U.S. jobs; or (3) assistance for any project that contributes to the violation of internationally recognized workers rights in such country. (Sec. 540) Authorizes the President, pursuant to a lifting of the United Nations arms embargo against Bosnia-Herzegovina, to transfer defense articles to such country's government without reimbursement if he certifies to the Congress that the transfer of such articles would assist that nation in self-defense and promote the security and stability of the region. (Sec. 541) Declares that funds appropriated under this Act for Haiti, Afghanistan, Lebanon, and Cambodia, and for victims of war, displaced children, displaced Burmese, humanitarian assistance for Romania, and humanitarian assistance for the peoples of Bosnia-Herzegovina, Croatia, and Kosova, may be made available notwithstanding any other provision of law. Directs the President to terminate assistance to any country that the President determines is cooperating with the military activities of the Khmer Rouge. Authorizes the use of foreign assistance funds to support: (1) tropical forestry and energy programs aimed at reducing emissions of greenhouse gases; and (2) biodiversity conservation activities. Authorizes AID to employ personal services contractors to administer programs for the West Bank and Gaza. (Sec. 542) Expresses the sense of the Congress with respect to steps the President should take to encourage renunciation of the Arab boycott of Israel. (Sec. 543) Authorizes the use of ESF funds to strengthen the administration of justice in countries in Latin America and the Caribbean. (Sec. 544) Declares that restrictions on assistance to foreign countries contained in this Act or any other Act shall not be construed to restrict assistance in support of programs of nongovernmental organizations as long as it is in the national interest of the United States. (Sec. 546) Authorizes for FY 1996 the provision of nonlethal excess defense articles, without regard to certain restrictions, to countries for which U.S. foreign assistance has been requested and for which receipt of such articles was separately justified for the fiscal year. (Sec. 547) Prohibits the use of funds for publicity or propaganda purposes within the United States that were not authorized before the enactment of this Act. (Sec. 548) Sets forth Buy American requirements. (Sec. 549) Prohibits the use of funds to pay any assessments, arrearages, or dues of any U.N. member. (Sec. 551) Prohibits the provision of funds to a private voluntary organization that fails to provide any document, file, or record necessary to the auditing requirements of AID. (Sec. 552) Prohibits the provision of funds to any foreign government that provides lethal military equipment to a country that the Secretary of State has determined has a terrorist government, unless the President determines that the furnishing of such assistance is in the national interest. (Sec. 553) Withholds assistance to a foreign country in an amount equal to 110 percent of the total unpaid parking fines and penalties owed by the country to the District of Columbia. (Sec. 554) Prohibits the obligation of any appropriations for the PLO for the West Bank and Gaza unless the President has exercised certain authorities to suspend prohibitions on assistance to the PLO. (Sec. 556) Permits the President to provide a specified amount of commodities and services to the U.N. War Crimes Tribunal if doing so will contribute to a resolution of charges regarding genocide or other violations of international law in the former Yugoslavia. (Sec. 557) Authorizes the use of funds made available to DOD for crating, packing, handling, and transportation of nonlethal excess defense articles transferred to countries eligible to participate in the Partnership for Peace and to receive assistance under the Program of Support for East European Democracy (SEED). (Sec. 558) Authorizes demining equipment used in support of the clearing of landmines for humanitarian purposes to be disposed of on a grant basis in foreign countries. (Sec. 559) Amends provisions of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, with respect to nuclear non-proliferation conditions on assistance to Pakistan, to prohibit military assistance equipment or technology to be furnished to Pakistan unless there is certification that Pakistan does not possess a nuclear explosive device, except for any assistance or transfer provided for: (1) international narcotics control; (2) facilitating military-to-military contact, humanitarian, and civic projects; (3) peacekeeping and other multilateral operations, except for lethal military equipment provided on a lease or loan basis only; and (4) antiterrorism assistance or any provision of law available for antiterrorism assistance. Maintains restrictions on contracts for the delivery of F-16 aircraft to Pakistan. Allows military equipment, technology, and defense services, except for F-16 aircraft, to be transferred to Pakistan with respect to contracts entered into before October 1, 1990. (Sec. 560) Prohibits the obligation of appropriations to create in Jerusalem a new U.S. agency office for the purpose of conducting U.S. business with the Palestinian Authority over Gaza and Jericho (or any successor Palestinian governing entity) provided for in the Israel-PLO Declaration of Principles. (Sec. 561) Prohibits certain funds appropriated for Informational Program activities from being obligated to pay for: (1) alcoholic beverages; (2) food (other than food provided at a military installation) not provided in conjunction with Program trips where students do not stay at a military installation; or (3) entertainment expenses. (Sec. 562) Prohibits the use of funds for assistance in support of any country that restricts transport or delivery of U.S. humanitarian assistance, except in the national security interest of the United States. (Sec. 563) Directs the President to withhold funds made available under this Act equal to the sum of assistance and credits, if any, provided by a foreign, country, or any entity in that country, in support of the completion of the Cuban nuclear facility at Juragua, near Cienfuegos, Cuba, with specified exceptions. (Sec. 564) Bars funding to Haiti if the Government of Haiti is controlled by a regime holding power through means other than the democratic elections to be held in 1995. (Sec. 566) Limits ESF assistance to Turkey. (Sec. 566A) Limits the use of funds for the North American Development Bank only for purposes set out in the binational agreement establishing the bank. (Sec. 567) Bars the use of funds for International Narcotics Control or Crop Substitution in Burma. (Sec. 568) Authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to subscribe to an increase in the authorized capital stock of the Asian Development Bank (the fourth general capital increase). Authorizes appropriations. (Sec. 569) Authorizes appropriations for the International Development Association (the tenth replenishment). (Sec. 570) Authorizes the President to reduce amounts owed to the United States by eligible countries as a result of: (1) housing guarantees made pursuant to the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961; or (2) credits extended or guarantees issued under the Arms Export Control Act. Permits such authority only: (1) to implement multilateral official debt relief and referendum agreements known as the Paris Club Agreed Minutes; and (2) with respect to countries with heavy debt burdens that are eligible to borrow from the International Development Association, but not from the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IDA-only countries). Prescribes additional conditions for the exercise of such authority. (Sec. 572) Authorizes the President to direct the drawdown for Jordan of defense articles and services from DOD, and military education and training up to a specified dollar amount provided certain conditions are met. (Sec. 576) Amends the United States-Hong Kong Policy Act of 1992 to require an additional report be made in 1996 respecting conditions in Hong Kong of interest to the United States and directs that such report include detailed information on the status of, and other developments affecting, implementation of the Sino-British Joint Declaration on the Question of Hong Kong, including the: (1) Basic Law and its consistency with the Joint Declaration; (2) openness and fairness of elections to the legislature; (3) openness and fairness of election of the chief executive and the executive's accountability to the legislature; (4) treatment of political parties; (5) independence of the judiciary and its ability to exercise the power of final judgement over Hong Kong; (6) Bill of Rights. (Sec. 579) Amends the Import-Export Bank Act of 1945 to extend funding for the Tied-Aid Credit Program through FY 1997. Authorizes appropriations to the Tied-Aid Credit Fund for FY 1996 and 1997. (Sec. 581) Amends the Eisenhower Exchange Fellowship Act of 1990 to extend the Au Pair Program. (Sec. 583) Bars assistance to Haiti until the President reports to the Congress that: (1) the Haitian Government is conducting thorough investigations of extrajudicial and political killings; and (2) the Government is cooperating with the United States authorities in the investigations of such killings. Excludes from the limitation provision of humanitarian or electoral assistance. Permits the President to waive the requirements of the limitation if he determines and certifies to the appropriate congressional committees that the waiver is: (1) in the national interest; or (2) necessary to assure the safe and timely withdrawal of American forces from Haiti. (Sec. 584) Prescribes that funding for activities in the internationally-recognized borders of Bosnia and Herzegovina, other than refugee and disaster assistance and assistance for the restoration of infrastructure, including power grids, water supplies and natural gas, be limited only to activities in the territory of the Bosniac-Croat Federation. (Sec. 585) Amends the NATO Participation Act of 1994 to authorize the President to: (1) evaluate the degree to which any country emerging from communist domination which has expressed interest in joining NATO meets the specified criteria; and (2) to designate one or more of these countries as eligible to receive assistance under the program to facilitate an eligible country's transition to NATO membership. Permits the President at any time to designate other such European countries for assistance under the program and at the time of designation, to determine and report to the House Committees on International Relations and Appropriations and the Senate Committees on Foreign Relations and Appropriations that each country so designated meets the criteria. Title VI: Middle East Peace Facilitation Act of 1995 - Middle East Peace Facilitation Act of 1995 - Declares the sense of the Congress specifying additional steps the PLO must take to demonstrate an irrevocable denunciation of terrorism and ensure a peaceful settlement of the Middle East dispute. (Sec. 604) Authorizes the President to suspend specified provisions of law which prohibit the U.S. share of foreign and United Nations assistance to the PLO, the receipt or expenditure of PLO funds, and PLO membership in the International Monetary Fund, upon certification to specified congressional committees that: (1) such waiver is in the national interest; (2) the PLO continues to abide by commitments made in letters to Israel and the Foreign Minister of Norway and under the Declaration of Principles signed in September 1993; and (3) specified funds provided under this Act and other Acts have been used for the purposes for which they were intended. Makes such suspensions effective for up to six months.